Episcopal diocese may abandon U.S. church
The San Joaquin Diocese would be the first to align itself with more conservative, foreign members of the global Anglican Communion.
By Louis Sahagun, Times Staff Writer
January 28, 2007

FRESNO — For Bishop John-David Schofield, the question is central to the future of the church he loves: Does the American Episcopal Church believe the Scriptures are the revealed word of God?
In a recent vote, a majority of his flock answered with a resounding "no," and that is why Schofield is leading his San Joaquin Diocese in an unprecedented effort to pull away from the Episcopal Church.

Although parishes have left the national church, primarily over the ordination of gays and lesbians, this is the first time that an entire diocese has sought to align itself with more conservative members of the Anglican Communion overseas.

His supporters view Schofield as their chief defense against what one diocese priest called "the plague of heresy infecting our churches and homes.

"Schofield's diocese, which had been largely ignored for decades by top Episcopal leaders, is sharpening the national debate over church identity and mission. Although the Fresno-based diocese has focused on its differences with the national church, Episcopal leaders have stressed their commonalities, such as core beliefs about the salvation promised by Jesus Christ. the rest