The top leaders of the worldwide Anglican Communion gathered under storm clouds for a crucial five-day meeting at a Roman Catholic retreat center in Portugal and emerged with a determination to work for unity, despite continuing differences on sexuality issues. So, the differing views expressed or implied in the practice of other Provinces are experienced as actively hurtful and undermining of mission. On the other hand, some believe that the integrity of the church does not rise or fall on sexuality issues and they should not impede the church's mission. As in any family, the assurance of love allows boldness of speech. We strongly urge such dioceses to weigh the effects of their actions, and to listen to the expressions of pain, anger and perplexity from other parts of the Communion.
Reactions vary Reaction to the communiqu was prompt and covered the spectrum.
While there is a welcome emphasis on the authority of the Scriptures in the life of our Communion, there is a regrettable ambiguity when it comes to the application of Scripture to the challenging issue of sexual relations between members of the same sex. On the other hand, some thought the communiqu went too far. He is convinced that the statement makes a direct connection between what is happening in the Episcopal Church and the resistance movement among conservatives. Others said that the primates gave an implied ultimatum to the American dioceses that dismiss the Lambeth resolution on sexuality. Conservatives also expressed frustration that the primates did not take concrete action to provide alternate oversight or to regularize the bishops consecrated in Singapore.