The Bill allowing women bishops was passed by a substantial majority of the Church in Wales’ governing body at a meeting in Lampeter. The vote followed what the Church called a ‘lengthy and passionate debate’ and was made with an amendment that made provision for a ‘code of practice’ for those who, according to a Church statement, ‘in conscience could not accept the authority of women bishops’
The arguments against women bishops are a prejudice looking for a theology
The Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry Morgan, said he was amazed that the decision was carried with such a large majority and that he was ‘absolutely delighted’ by the outcome. He added that he was aware that some would be disappointed. ‘As bishops we will now make sure that we pay particular attention to draw up pastoral provision for them,’ he said.
The Bill was proposed by the Bishop of St Asaph, Rt Rev Gregory Cameron, who asked at the meeting why the Church had ‘failed to do this for so long’, and called the arguments against the move ‘a prejudice looking for a theology’
In September, the Anglican Church in Ireland elected its first female bishop; Rev Pat Storey was elected Bishop of Meath and Kildare in the Republic of Ireland.
