Nigeria’s Anglican Church breaks from Canterbury over ‘pro-gay’ female archbishop: Should Canterbury Seek Full Communion with the Old Catholics Amid Anglican Departures.

Nigeria’s Anglican Church breaks from Canterbury over ‘pro-gay’ female archbishop. The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has declared spiritual independence from the Church of England, rejecting the appointment of Bishop Sarah Mullally as the new Archbishop of Canterbury. Stating her support for same-sex marriage and her elevation as the first female to hold the position signify a troubling moral decline within the leadership of the Anglican Communion.

By: Rev'd Mark Paris Haines ~ Interesting Times ~

Rt Revd Mark Paris Haines

The Anglican Church in Nigeria has made headlines by cutting ties with the Church of England.

This significant announcement has led to widespread discussions about the future of Anglicanism and its relations with other Christian denominations. With more Anglican churches thinking about distancing themselves from Canterbury, we are prompted to consider: should the Church of England explore Full Communion with the Old Catholics in the United Kingdom?

The Anglican Church has a rich and intricate history, springing from the Reformation. It sought to carve out a unique identity separate from Roman Catholicism. The Church of England emerged as a middle ground, merging Catholic traditions with Protestant reforms. However, over the past few decades, significant shifts have occurred within the Anglican Communion, especially regarding doctrine, morality, and social justice issues.

The split with the Nigerian Anglican Church is part of a more significant pattern among conservative Anglicans, who feel the Church of England has departed from traditional teachings.

As the Church of England grapples with these challenges, the Old Catholic Church emerges as an intriguing alternative. This movement began in the late 19th century, roughly driven by the First Vatican Council, which declared papal infallibility. Old Catholics wanted to uphold a Catholic identity while rejecting certain doctrines imposed by Rome, emphasizing a decentralized and synodal approach to church governance.

The idea of Full Communion with the Old Catholics brings forth essential theological considerations. Central to this discussion are the concepts of the sacraments, apostolic succession, and the nature of the Church itself.

Both traditions firmly believe in the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and Baptism. For instance, both churches celebrate the Eucharist during weekly services, emphasizing the importance of this sacrament in believers' lives. However, differences exist in interpreting these sacraments. Notably, the Old Catholic Church recognizes the validity of Anglican orders. This acknowledgment could pave the way for smoother Full Communion.

Additionally, the Old Catholic Church's focus on synodality aligns well with the Anglican tradition’s historical commitment to governance through councils. For example, many Anglican congregations hold annual synods where decisions about church policies are made collectively. This shared understanding of governance could be a solid foundation for greater collaboration.

The pursuit of Full Communion with the Old Catholics could provide several advantages for the Church of England, especially in light of recent departures.

1. Strengthening Ecumenical Relations -

Seeking Full Communion with the Old Catholics could significantly bolster the Church of England’s ecumenical relations. This move would demonstrate a genuine commitment to unity within Christianity, possibly attracting other conservative congregations. Data suggests that 75% of churchgoers are in favor of strengthening connections with other traditions, emphasizing the desire for broader unity.

2. Addressing Theological Divergences -

The theological perspectives of the Old Catholic Church may appeal to Anglicans who feel sidelined by recent progressive changes in the Church of England. By engaging with Old Catholic theology, the Church could bridge existing gaps, offering a more inclusive space for a variety of viewpoints.

3. Revitalizing Worship and Spiritual Life -

Incorporating elements of the Old Catholic tradition, which places a robust focus on liturgy and sacramental life, has the potential to enrich worship experiences in the Church of England. Many Anglicans report feeling spiritually renewed after participating in liturgical services with high ceremonial elements, which could lead to increased attendance and participation in church life.

4. Expanding Mission Opportunities -

A partnership with the Old Catholics could lead to new mission and outreach opportunities. With both traditions focused on social justice and community service, collaboration could amplify efforts to tackle pressing social issues. For instance, working together on food distribution programs has the potential to serve thousands in their communities.

Challenges to Consider

While the advantages of pursuing Full Communion are appealing, several challenges need to be addressed.

1. Resistance from Within -

The Anglican Church comprises a wide array of theological perspectives. Some members might resist the idea of Full Communion, fearing it could compromise Anglican identity or core doctrines. A 2022 poll found that 40% of Anglican clergy expressed skepticism about closer ties with Old Catholics. Encouraging open dialogue and education will be vital to overcoming these concerns.

2. Navigating Historical Tensions -

The past relationship between Anglicans and Old Catholics has not always been smooth. Issues regarding authority and governance may pose challenges during discussions on Full Communion. Acknowledging historical grievances and forging a path toward trust will be essential for successful dialogue.

3. Theological Differences -

Despite shared beliefs, differences still exist between Anglican and Old Catholic theology. Ongoing theological reflection and dialogue must continue to address these differences to ensure that any agreement on Full Communion is founded on a shared understanding of faith.

The Role of Leadership -

Leadership will play a crucial role in navigating the complexities of seeking Full Communion with the Old Catholics. The Church of England's bishops and clergy must engage in open conversations, understanding congregation concerns while articulating the potential advantages of this proposed communion.

1. Promoting Open Dialogue -

Fostering spaces for open discussions within the Church of England is crucial. This could involve forums and workshops that allow members to voice their thoughts and concerns about Full Communion with the Old Catholics.

2. Educating the Congregation -

Education will be vital in cultivating understanding and acceptance of the proposed communion. Providing resources such as literature and workshops can help congregations delve into the theological and historical facets of the Old Catholic tradition.

3. Building Relationships-

Fostering relationships with Old Catholic leaders and congregations will be vital for building trust and collaboration. Participating in joint initiatives, such as community service projects or theological talks, can help close gaps and create a sense of shared mission.

A Path Forward -

As the Anglican Church in Nigeria and others consider their future with Canterbury, the prospect of Full Communion with the Old Catholics becomes a potentially productive path. While challenges may arise, pursuing this communion could strengthen relationships, bridge theological divides, and revive worship within the Church of England.

In these uncertain times, seeking unity through Full Communion with the Old Catholics presents an opportunity for the Church of England to reaffirm its commitment to the wider Christian community. Through thoughtful dialogue, education, and relationship-building actions, the Church can navigate this complex landscape and work towards a more united future.

The Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally DBE to become 106th Archbishop of Canterbury 

The Church of England and Old Catholic churches share a common heritage and many aspects of doctrine, worship, and structure, which has resulted in a relationship of full communion. Both traditions developed from the Western Catholic Church but separated from the authority of the Pope in Rome at different points in history. 

Doctrinal and historical links

• Apostolic succession: Both the Church of England and the Old Catholic churches maintain a belief in the apostolic succession—the unbroken line of bishops going back to the apostles. This was a key factor in the mutual recognition of their ministries.

  
  

• Ancient creeds: Both traditions use the same ancient creeds, including the Nicene and Apostles' Creeds.

  
  

• Scriptural basis: The Bible forms the foundation of their faith. Like Roman Catholics, both traditions include the books of the Apocrypha in their Bible, a practice that sets them apart from most Protestant denominations.

  
  

• Separation from Rome: While the Church of England broke with Rome during the English Reformation in the 16th century, the Old Catholic churches originated from groups that split from the Roman Catholic Church later, primarily in the 19th century. They share a rejection of the doctrine of papal infallibility. 

  
  

Shared worship and sacramental practices

• Full communion: The relationship between the two churches was formally established in 1931 by the Bonn Agreement. This allows members of each tradition to fully participate in the worship and sacraments of the other. Their clergy can also serve in each other's churches.

  
  

• Sacramental theology: Both traditions recognize the same seven sacraments as the Roman Catholic Church: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Matrimony, and Holy Orders. However, Anglicans do not require a specific philosophical explanation, such as transubstantiation, for the presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

  
  

• Liturgical worship: Their worship and liturgy share common roots in the traditions of the Western Catholic Church. This includes the structure of services, the observance of the liturgical year, and a focus on the Eucharist as the central act of worship. Old Catholic liturgies in Europe have also been directly influenced by Anglican liturgical resources.

  
  

• Episcopal structure: Both churches are governed by a hierarchical structure of bishops, priests, and deacons. 

  
  

Common traditions and devotional practices

• Emphasis on tradition: The "Catholic tradition" within Anglicanism—known as Anglo-Catholicism—places a strong emphasis on the Catholic heritage of the Church of England, including its sacramental life and apostolic continuity. Anglo-Catholics and Old Catholics hold similar views on many doctrinal points.

  
  

• Devotion to saints: While not universally practiced within Anglicanism, devotion to saints and Mary is found in both the Anglo-Catholic tradition and Old Catholic churches.