In communion
In the light of today’s news that seven Primates of the “Global South” (the conservative archbishops who oppose the liberal policies of the Episcopal Church in the USA and other Anglican churches elsewhere) refused to take communion with the rest of their fellows at the meeting in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Morningsider posted this quotation from Thomas Cranmer on Father Tobias’ blog, who formulated much classic Anglican thought and practice. It struck me as right to the point – that these seven are clearly cutting themselves off from the Communion, not excluding anyone else.
more cruel and unreasonable are they than brute beasts, that cannot be persuaded to be good to their Christian brethren and neighbours, for whom Christ suffered death, when in this sacrament they be put in remembrance that the Son of God bestowed his life for his enemies. We see by daily experience that the eating and drinking, together maketh friends and continueth friendship; much more then ought the table of Christ to move us so to do. Wild beasts and birds be made gentle by giving them meat and drink: why then should not Christian men wax meek and gentle with this heavenly meat of Christ? Hereunto we be stirred and moved, as well by bread and wine in this holy supper, as by the words of scripture recited in the same. Wherefore whose heart so ever this holy sacrament, communion and supper of Christ will not kindle with love unto his neighbours, and cause him to put out of his heart all envy, hatred, and malice, and to grow in the same all amity, friendship, and concord, he deceiveth himself, if he thinks he hath the spirit of Christ dwelling within him.
Thomas Cranmer, (Defence of the True and Catholic Docrine of the Scacrament, 1550).
(As an aside, I actually find it reassuring that the number of Primates who cut themselves off in this fashion has actually reduced since the last major meeting, when 14 did so. Perhaps they are understanding that standing aside in this way is declaring their own unworthiness, not someone else’s.)
pax et bonum
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