Truro May Leave Episcopal Church
City's Episcopal church may split from U.S. Episcopal Church, homosexuality a major issue.
By Ari Cetron
November 29, 2006

Truro Episcopal Church, an institution in the City of Fairfax with roots dating to colonial times may soon split off from the Episcopal Church of the United States.

The church's vestry — the governing board of the church — voted to recommend the split last month. The congregation as a whole will vote on Dec. 10 to decide their fate. If Truro decides to make the split, it will be the first church in Virginia to do so.

The split, also being considered by The Falls Church in Falls Church, is the culmination of 40 years worth of theological differences, said Jim Pierobon. While a parishioner at the Falls Church, Pierobon is acting as spokesman for both churches.

The issue came to a head in 2003 when the church confirmed an openly gay bishop. "Among the presenting issues was Gene Robinson's consecration in New Hampshire," Pierobon said.The vestries of the two churches decided that they could not accept the liberalization in the American church. They wish to adhere to what they say is a strict interpretation of the Bible which forbids homosexuality.

While the church may vote to split off, they hope to remain within the worldwide Anglican Church under the auspices of its Nigerian branch, Pierobon said. "Churches, especially in Africa, are very conservative and even orthodox in their views of scripture and the Bible," he said. the rest