As Christmas approaches…
As Christmas approaches – we find ourselves in the position where we neither look FORWARD or look BACK. Our thoughts are concentrated on the Birth of Christ and Christmas, because that is what the world (most of whom do not believe in God or regularly attend a church) expect of us.
Humanists object to Christianity and Creation being taught in schools (claiming pupils should be free of classroom influence on their belief) but insist humanism should be taught. Those who demand inclusivity, then want to exclude those with whom they do not agree, when they get it.
As I write these words in the middle of December, I see the Prime Minister of England has rejected calls for Civil Partnerships to be made available to Heterosexual (opposite gender) couples, on the grounds that it was only of ‘fringe’ interest, yet destroyed the Scriptural tradition and definition of MARRIAGE (one man and one woman for life) when only 4 or 5% on the census claimed to be homosexual. Those of you living on other Continents, may be unaware that European countries have lost the right to make most of the decisions that affect their individual countries, the European Union having introduced legislation that prevents Sovereign decisions by individual nations.
There was widespread approval for legislation outlawing ‘religious extremists’ but these same laws are being used to prosecute Christian believers who attend ‘church’ for other than the ritual ‘one hour’ on a Sunday morning. If your church has midweek meetings or Mother’s Union of Women’s Institute, that would constitute extremist or sexist justification for legal action – and it’s no good relying on a ‘fair trial’ because most Magistrates, Judges and Lawyers know (and care) nothing about Biblical Standards which we thought were enshrined in our Law.
2013 finished with my Investiture as the AICW Primate Archbishop and my first Episcopal visit to Port Elizabeth in South Africa, where a special bond was – inevitably – established. 3 more Bishops (and their clergy and congregations) were Consecrated earlier this month.
Earlier this year (2014), after being increasing bed-ridden in my own home, the decision was taken – but not until after a considerable amount of prayer – by Rev. Marcos Sanz and Ann – to have me moved to A&E, where I was hospitalised for 9 days. Many suggested it was an affliction resulting from my acceptance of the decision by Bishop Jorge to abdicate and designate me as his replacement. There were time when I felt so ill – even praying that I would die – when I thought they might be right.
Ten days ago I saw the Doctor who discharged me from hospital after 9 days, and was surprised when she told us “The hospital had done everything we could but you were not improving. I sent you home to die, figuring you’d rather die in your own bed than in one of ours!” I cannot – months after being discharged – even write these words with tears in my eyes reminding me of our total dependancy on God.
As I rely on God, I rely – too – on you.
God brought me through the ‘valley of the shadow of death’ but it is your hands that will (prayerfully) ‘lift up my arms’ to accomplish what God had planned and will accomplish.
I am processing many eMails seeking Affiliation or Concordats with AICW, which is UNUSUAL, given the fact that we do not ordain women (other than as Deaconesses) or approve homosexual behaviour.
Ann and I wish the blessing and anointing of God on you (your families, clergy and congregations) this Christmas and in 2015.
Your friend and servant
++Clive
Primate Archbishop
Anglican Independent Communion Worldwide