Top Anglicans agree formula to end women bishops conflict

THE Church of England has reached a historic agreement on the ordination of women bishops despite dissent from traditionalist clergy.

Senior church figures have agreed a formula which enshrines the principle of equality for male and female bishops while offering an "opt out" clause.

Under a new code of practice, a list of male "complementary" bishops will be drawn up for parishes which refuse to work with a woman. Although these "flying" bishops, correctly known as provincial episcopal visitors, would work under the authority of the diocesan female bishop, they would be able to step in to give individual parishes the option to become a women-leader-free zone.

The scheme, outlined in a new report, could see the first female bishop consecrated by 2012.

But the proposal was today criticised by traditionalist clergy. The Rev Rod Thomas, chairman of the conservative evangelical group Reform, said he expected there to be conflict over the detail of the final agreement when the Church's General Synod discusses the legislation and code of practice in February.

"The outlook is very sad," he added. "We now have the prospect of much wrangling in the General Synod." He said there was still a chance the decision would create a schism within the Anglican clergy.

When the General Synod voted in July to press ahead with the ordination of women bishops, some 1,300 clergy threatened to leave the Church.

Pressure group Women in the Church said any compromise would create second-class clergy and institutionalise division.