Great news!How can we Christians expect others to listen to the word of God,when we are filled with disaggreements.Ask yourself if you dont want unity because of some bigoted stance.

roddy, glasgow, uk

There have been many of us Anglicans who have left the Church to go to Evangelical Churches which hold to the word of God. The Reformers were correct in arguing for favour of reform. The R.c Church did not give us the Bible! It came from God, it is God breathed.

jenny, Leeds, England

Anglicans have only had Mass for 60 years! Article 31 of the Book of Common Prayer, states, "the masses for the living and the dead are a blasphemous fable and a deceit" !Reformation was Political. Henry VIII needed money to keep war going. He bankrupted England so he got it from the church plate.

Greene, Stoke-on-Trent, England

If I read any more webpages on 'what Jesus said' I think I shall develop a permanent headache. Will Christians ever grow up -- read either Francesco Carotta (Jesus is Caesar), or Joseph Atwill ( Caesar's Messiah), or the ongoing Peso Family History?

Seamus Breathnach
www.irish-criminology.com

seamus breathnach, Dublin, Republic of Ireland

Hi,

Many are posting their 'own' beliefs as the true christian belief. Their motive is something different - backed by the roaring lion wandering here and there wondering whom to swallow.
Others, please do not pay attention to that.
Bible is base of Christianity - you got it by Catholic Church

Jose, Bangalore, India

Grewing up in a muslim country, to school with muslim friends and workers. My mother,were all protestant while dad is budhist. Grew up here and there, learn hinduism 14 years and been over 80 countries,saw Japan , China, India, Middle east, went to school in Europe , Asia, USA, i came to the conclusion that:

1. If we believe in the bible from creation to Habakuk the prophet, we would certainly believe in Jesus.
2. If we believe in the Quran then we would also believe iin Nabi ISA (jesus) and stop there.
3. If we believe in Other christian religion we would also believe in one Jesus.

And JESUS said, " I am love". YOu can only go to God through me. ANd JEsus taught about forgiveness and mercy. Also taught about the kingdom that is divided cannot stand. Once I understood His message of LOVE, I can only say that Catholic is the only religion that is complete and true.
Jesus assigned PEter as his representative, lets OBEY JEsus. For in Obedience there is the greatest freedom.

juyi, san diego, USA

I believe that all christian churches should unite as one (not neccessarily under the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church) to display their unity following the principles of Jesus. A council of twelve with one Chief cousel presiding is what Jesus had - why not do the same again. There is too much hatred in this world against all of christianity and now is the time for christians to put aside their differences and agrre to work together on the principles that Jesus had taught.

John, Lancaster, USA

Why should the anglican clergy wants to unite with the roman catholic church ? do they not know that the roman catholic church is a tyrannical church that had persecuted me for 30 years ? do the anglican church not know that the roman pope since pope john paul II wanted to be globlal emperor-god ? just see how they address their pope as most Holy Father in the church pamphlets some 20 years ago, they even promise to haunt me and chase me to any country that I moved to . At present, I do not have my individual freedom because of the roman catholic cardinals and bishops.' sending its temporal government agencies to bother me, they even bothered the chinese priest that baptized me. I have legally changed my name 3 years ago, and still bother me. Down with roman catholic hierarchy.; they only want to be global ruler.

winston , hacienda hts, ca,, u.s.a.

It is a bit difficult to accept that the Orthodox churches would contemplate surrendering themselves to the See of Rome. After all these years, centuries of hatred and greed on the part of the Roman See, these Orthodox churches dare to bend the knee to the totalitarian Papacy! It' s a bit like George Bush talking about his 'allies' when he drops bombs on Iraq and Afghanistan. We have seen in the Regensberg Lecture where the Pope wants to lead the world.

Is Islam, then, the only hope of resisting the Roman crusaders?

Seamus Breathnach
www.irish-criminology.com

seamus breathnach, Dublin, Ireland

What would Jesus say if he read some of the responses to this page?Probably nothing, his tears would stop him.

roddy cavin, glasgow, uk

Since when Pope Benedict "MAde all Catholic Churches" REturn to the LAtin MAss.
The Motu PRoprio if anybody read it, was for those who wanted to celebrate the MAss in LAtin duh!

Also tho all those CAtholics, look at the Episcopal Church when did they started growing. They are falling apart.

This will be the CAtholic Church twenty years from now if ORthodoxy dies out!

Mark PAtino, KAnsas City, Kansas USA

John Chapter 6

Ben Gareau, Saskatoon, Canada

1) Is justification by faith alone? Jesus said --> "Not everyone who says to me "Lord, Lord", will enter the kingdom of Heaven but only THOSE WHO DO THE WILL of my Father in heaven.' - Matthew 7:21) " also see. James 2:18ff

2) What is Peter's role in the church? Jesus said --> " Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father.
And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.
I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.’ ” (Matthew 16:17-19

The Good Lord is a Good Delegator, He Delegated government in His church to the Disciples and their successors...when will these Protestants stop living by NEGATING sound doctrine while propounding narrowly understood ideas????

Kachi, Lagos, Nigeria,

Jesus Christ did not start the Catholic church. Jesus Christ never started a single church.

shane trammel, keller,

What a fullfilment of Bible prophecy. "...and the whole world wandered after the beast.." ( Revelation 13:3). If possible, the millions of christian martyrs,who were slaughtered by popery, would cry out from their graves.
Just another sign that Jesus is soon to come

Aubrey, Forsyth, Georgia

As a Roman Catholic of more than 65 years standing but, sadly lapsed for the past 40 years I welcome the incentives of the present Pope, Gregory. I could not accept the rulings of Vatican Council 2 and have found solace in recordings of the Mass as it was determined by the Council of Trent. Despite the fact that the service is conducted in English and that I cannot participate in the Communion Service, I have very much enjoyed taking part in a Communion Service at a nearby Anglican church once a month. It is more sincere and more like the old service that I grew up with - I wish that it was more than once a month.

Victor F Webb, Chandler's Ford, United Kingdom

The re-joining of two sibling organizations who had strayed apart because of politics, not doctrinal differences, and whose ethics, belief structures and practices remain similar even today is very appropriate in these troubled times. As a Catholic who married an Anglican, I fully support this reunion. All I can say to our soul-mates of BOTH sides, when this event comes to pass, is: "welcome home, let us rejoice together."

Keith, Los Angeles,

To all who oppose the CAtholic Church with your own opinion, and that is what it is, your opinion. Who started your church and in what year? The Catholic Church was started by Jesus Christ. The Catholic Church put together the Bible (So who better to interpret it). Christ's church has Bishops and priests. If You really are a Bible believing Christain then you will ook up ll the churches mentioned in the Bible. They are ALL CATHOLIC CHURCHES> Do not bash the POPE and the teachings of the Catholic Church with your own opinion and teachings. As scripture says test it! Find out why things are asthe Pope say's they are. You will find he is CORRECT!

Emile Vermette, Warwick, US/RI

Pope Benedict has made it clear that he considers churches without apostolic succession to be nothing more than prayer groups. Many Anglican bishops have valid apostolic succession through the Old Catholic Church and the Order of Corporate Reunion.

Most Anglican priests accepted as clergy by Rome are only reordained sub conditione because of the probable validity of their orders.

As a priest in a Catholic Church not affiliated with Rome, I have mixed feelings about seeing Anglicans unite under the Pope. But Rome has been more than generous in allowing a beautiful Anglican rite to be used by parishes that unite with Rome, one lovers of the 1928 Book of Common Prayer would recognize.

And perhaps unity with Rome would lead the Pope to rethink mandatory celibacy of Western rite priests and bishops, which would be a major step forward in easing the Roman priest shortage.

Father Daniel, Rumford, USA, state of Maine

St. Irenaeus, Bishop of Lyons, disciple of St. Polycarp, ( who was himself a disciple of St. John the Evangelist ) had this to say:'..we point to the tradition of that very great and very ancient and universally known Church which was founded and established at Rome by the two glorious Apostles Peter and Paul; we point, I say to the tradition which this Church has from the apostles, and to her faith proclaimed to men which comes down to our time through the succession of her bishops, and so we put to shame all who assemble in unauthorized meetings. For with this Church, because of its superior authority, all must agree-that is the faithful everywhere-in communion with which Church the tradition of the Apostles has been always preserved by those who are everywhere.'

Christine, wigan,

'Pope says to all non catholics 'You are not a proper church'!'

Does this not make the Pope nothing more than a bigot?

John Brunlees, Northwich, Cheshire

Pope says to all non catholics 'You are not a proper church'!

How insulting, how offensive, how arrogant can you get!

To think most non Catholics like myself have spent years offering the hand of friendship, and praising Catholics (especially the previous Pope) for their strong stand on moral issues, and this is how the Pope decides to respond to this love and friendship. How very sad!
I had my doubts about this Pope when he decided to take the Catholic Church back to the dark ages by stating that all Catholic churches world-wide should return to holding their services in Latin, thus keeping the church and priest in total control and the congregation in the dark. In my personal experience, Catholics friends I know, already have no first hand knowledge of the scriptures or very little as they have received their faith second hand via their priest or church. I suggest they start seeking their faith first hand perhaps by reading the whole of John's Gospel for a start.

Simon Icke, AYLESBURY, UK

Dear Sir/Ma'am

Rather than attack me personally Mr Rice, deal with the facts of Roman Catholic apostasy and heresy.

"Before the Reformation, there was amongst all classes, a conspicuous absence of all knowledge of true Christianity. A gross darkness overspread the land, a darkness that might be felt. Not one in a hundred could have told you as much about the Gospel of Christ, as we could now learn from any intelligent Sunday School child..............To the Reformation, Englishmen owe an English Bible, and liberty for every man to read it. To the Reformation, they owe the knowledge of the way of peace with God, and of the right of every sinner to go straight to Christ by faith, without bishop, priest, or minister standing in his way. To the Reformation, they owe a Scriptural standard of morality and holiness, such as our ancestors never dreamed of. For ever, let us be thankful for these inestimable mercies and refuse to let them go..........."

Bishop J.C.Ryle

Barry Holroyd, Leeds, West Yorkshire, England

As to the gay issue, sexual preference has falsely been made an issue in the Church .

The Bible is clear, with no doubt whatsoever, that homosexuality is an abomination to God ; end of story ; the Bible is , like God, permanent and unchanging .

A person's problem in this regard is between the person and God ..... It should not be an issue , whatsover, between a person and The Church, however .....

Hopefully homosexuals will be able to overcome their sexual / passion propensities in their lives, in this regard, as best they can, with God's help .

Stephen Glass, Toronto, Canada

ill become a catholic the day the rev ian paisley does.never going to happen,most protestant born english people dont go to church,what makes you think they would want to become catholic , we might believe in god and pray,you dont need to go to church to do that,i certainly dont want to be told what i can do or cant do by a foreigner in rome,especially a german one,
i believe in abortion and freedom of choice for women, for example a 14 year irish girl was raped and got pregant,she came to england to have an abortion,and the irish government or church ordered her back,which she did,she had a miscarrage,who are the catholic church to interfere which a personal decision,
as for returning to englands original faith,sorry it wasnt the catholic faith,
So keep your catholic faith and your scandals and lay off the church of england

billy, liverpool, merseyside

I say let the church of England die its slow death. It will happen and its happening as we speak people are coming over to the Catholic Church.

We can't change their minds of the one's that speak terrible things about our Catholic Church so lets just keep accepting with open arms our brothers and sister that want to come back to the True Church.

One more thing that I belive this will happen is that the new prime minister has said that the bishops of the Church of England will be pick by church and not by the state any longer.

Rick, Houston,

I find Barry Holroyd's comment to be wholly inflammatory and backward-looking. The approach suggested within his quote is entirely negative and unhelpful. It also, if he indeed agrees with all the comments made by the Bishop of Liverpool, shocking ignorance of Roman Catholic teaching and total bigotry. If you wish to disagree with something, at least have the common decency to find out what it is you are refuting first. I find it hard to believe that Our Lord would encourage ignorant Bible-thumping. The Catholic Church has 2000 years of rich philosophical and intellectual tradition to draw on - something Anglicans sorely lack. If unity were possible, it would massively benefit both communions. I hope and pray for the reversal of Henry VIII's schism and the return of England to its original faith.

Gavin Rice, Southend-on-Sea, UK

Dear Sir/Ma'am

I can only respond with the words of Bishop JC.Ryle, the first Protestant Bishop of Liverpool (1880-1900)

"Unity without truth is useless. Peace and uniformity are beautiful and valuable: but peace without the Gospel—peace based on a common church government, and not on a common faith—is a worthless peace, not deserving of the name. When Rome has repealed the decrees of Trent, and her additions to the Creed—when Rome has recanted her false and unscriptural doctrines—when Rome has formally renounced image-worship, Mary-worship, and transubstantiation—then, and not till then, will it be time to talk of reunion with her. Till then there is a gulf between us which cannot be honestly bridged. Till then I call on all Christians to resist to the death this idea of reunion with Rome. Till then let our watchwords be 'No peace with the Roman Catholic Church! No communion with idolaters.' "

To which I can do no other than say, Amen!!

Barry Holroyd, Leeds, West Yorkshire, England

I have always reasoned that a Uniate status could be made for Anglicans as was done for the Ukrainian Catholic Church or Maronite Church. In this manner the canons, The Book of Common Prayer , liturgy and polity of the autonomous provinces of the Anglican Communion could remain intact . At the same time, the Anglican Communion would acknowledge the Bishop of Rome as Patriarch of the Western Church; who is first among equals, the sign and focus of unity of Faith and Order in Christ's One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church.

At councils of the Church Anglican bishops would convene along side the Roman bishops in the same way as other Uniate Churches do. The Roman Church has made allowances for distinct culture, polity, liturgy, canons of existing Uniate Churches. There is no reason it cannot do the some for the Anglican Communion. The unity of the Christian Faith is critical at this time in history with the rise of Secularism and militant Islam. Unity is imperative for the Church.

Peter Moll, Tampa, USA / Florida

The primary reason for my leaving the anglican/baptist background I was brought up in was watching a church "Anglicanism" slowly and finally becoming a tool of the leftist socialist agenda. As the primates, priests and laity in the anglican communion started writing God out of their religion and replacing the diety with so-called social agandas when anglicanism started producing "priests & bishops who espoused not only the lack of belief in Jesus Christ as Divine but even a belief in God, when females & homosexuals for all the politically correct neo-marxist reasons were pushed into the forefront of the anglican social agent, most especially in the USA, Canada, and the United kingdom, it was time for me go get the" HELL" out of this secular humanist cult. And folks there are millions of Anglicans with & developing the same mindset. Regarding "Anglicanism" in it's liberal manifestations it is a dying church, but come to think of it, it started with a degenerate Horny henry the 8th.

Johannim, Brea, California U.S.A.

"Religion," nowadays, may no longer represent a personal relationship between God and humanity for seems to have more negative connotations than positive ones.

The need to move into spiritual realms under which all "religions" may become a unified front against diminishing human morals, ethics and values should be the number one priority of a universal church where each and everyone of its members has a clear and profound understanding of his/her fundamental purpose as a Spiritual being beyond that of a human being which I believe was the fundamental tenet taught and shown by example by a man named Jesus, about 2,000 years ago!

We need to tap into our Divinity!
TapintoYourDivinity.com

JC Wandemberg, Las Cruces, NM

This is the first time that I have ever engaged a conversation that has ever been a source of wonder and question to me, especially with English Catholics, "my brothers". I suppose that there shall be eventual union, and it is ever in my prayers; the details shall be marked out among men as it is among men that the Church exists, and as Madison so eloquently put it "... if men were angels then there would be no need for governments..." so as the Church exists among and it is men who must live with each other on this earth then it is among men that those details will be marked out, with Divine guidance and inspiration. Having studied "Holy Torah" I am struck that the story of our faith is ever like the stories that flow all through Torah and follow the same character "loss, punishment, purification and redemption" from Genesis through Ezekiel to Chronicles. I hope to stay ever in contact with this forum; there is ferment and life. God's blessings on all of You.

W.A. "Bill" Bullard, Fall River, Mass.,

The current whirlwind of women priests with boy haircuts and pro-gay ordinations & marriages is disgusting, sickening and totally based on a socio-political agenda.
It is nothing short of insanity. This liberal madness that exists in the ECUSA churches today has gone so far over the edge that, except for the great buildings, music and vestments, the church is almost unrecognizable. It is a further farce that the current and former Arch-bishops of Canterbury are weak men who cater to the whims of pro-gay, pro-women congregations in the US and England and as such, have made a mockery of the glorious church I grew up in. Dr. Rowan refuses to take a firm, absolute and resolute stand. He refuses to rule with an iron fist as the Pope would. Enough meetings. I am sickened when I visit England and see these women on the altar. In the U.S. women and queers. Henry VIII would have them all sent to the tower. God bless the Pope. May Anglicans find strong & decisive leadership. Amen.

Anglican male, Greenville,

The pharisees believed that no man could forgive sins but God, and Jesus refuted them for it Christ clearly tells his disciples that "whosever sins ye forgive they are forgiven them and whosever sins you do not forgive they are not forgiven". James also tells us that a man is justified by works and not by faith only. So therefore the catholic and anglican church due to apostolic succesion hold the keys to the kingdom ordained by christ the one true church.
nowhere in the bible did anyone "accept Jesus into his heart" its just protestant propaganda.

Matt Powell, indianapolis indiana, U.S.A.

Now we know why the boarder is open in the United States and Mexico. The Catholic Church needs more Catholics in the United States to take over by becoming a majority and controlling our politics. Our politicians will not close the boarder! Many of them are Catholic! I wonder what arrangements have been made by the Pop and our president Bush to gain a "moral majority"?

John, Chattanooga, TN

Jesus said "I AM THE WAY,THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE" "NO MAN COMES TO THE FATHER BUT BY ME" Sadley the Catholic Church and the Angelican Church are about works not of Faith. The Book of Romans calls Homosexuality an Abomination. The ones who commit this sin can still get to Heaven but must Repent and come to Jesus Christ, otherwise they are doomed to Hell.
No where in the Holy Bible does it tell us to confess our sins to man or to pray to statues."ALL HAVE SINNED AND COME SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD. " Thats you and me. We all need to come to Jesus for Forgivness and Salavation. For in no other name is Forgivness

hank, Gallatin, United States, Tennessee

Why do the media in Britain always turn to the Catholic Church first for its opinion on any important question of the day?Because the church stands by its teachings.The Anglican Church wishes to become more liberal and is turning away from God.Upon this rock I will build MY church not a church.

roddy cavin, glasgow, south lanarkshire

The real question is why did the protestants leave the "Catholic church" in the first place? It was because many protestants were brutally slaughtered because they refused to "kiss the feet" of the pope. So, they sailed to a new land where they had no king to rule over them nor a pope to tell them how to think and what to believe. The protestants churches uniting under one banner of the Catholic church is prophesied in the book of Revelation. The world will once again wonder after the Catholic church or the beast. The daughters (protestants) of the Catholic church will eventually wonder back home! Now, what about those who still want to remain "true protestants?" Those who enjoy the worship of the God of heaven without interference from man. Will their religious liberties be in jeopardy? God is coming soon! This article is another sign of the fulfillment of bible prophesy. For more information, read "The Great Controversy"

Roger Prince, Elkridge, US, Maryland

I find it presumptious and political for a group of people to decide what their followers will believe. Thye points in this article are not surprising.
I hope that people will read the word of God for themselves, work out their faith with fear and trembling, and discuss but not argue their own findings.

Robert Goodyear, Lethbridge, Alberta

it is really quite simple, the problem with the TEC USA is that there is no point of authority, each bishop or diocese has the authority to change things, hence women priests, gay marriage, whatever they decide the Holy Spirit leads them to -- rahter the devil I would say. Don't like the 10 Commandments, lets vote on one. While the Catholic Church has had its share of less than holy men as bishops, including the Bishop of Rome, none of them have changed the truth that hte Church teaches. JP II said to the woman harrassing him about women priests, "I have no authority to ordain women to the priesthood." He also has no authority to question the resurection, which at least one bishop of TEC, Sprong, openly voiced doubts about without an official rebuke.

dave, falls church, VA

As a protestant, following the development in the Anglican Communion with great interest, I´m a little astonished at reading mr Nagle´s comment. I´d like to make this comment: In devout circles in the past, the question was: Can a priest be saved? Nowadays it seems the question is: Can anyone but the priest be saved? Is e.g. the sacramant of marriage or anointing of the sick necessary for salvation..?
göran, Sweden

göran gerdås, nässjö, sweden

Our Lord prayed so earnestly for Christian unity before His Crucifixion. We need a heart for it also. 'So that the world may believe' ( Jon 17.21)

Father Bryan Storey , Tintagel, UK

I think that women already have something as wonderful as ordination to the priesthood because we can give birth to a living human being, and I also believe that everyone I meet is Eucharist to me and I am Eucharist to them. Does it follow that I gave birth to the Eucharist? A baby, after all, is God's decision that the world should continue. One of a priest's greatest privileges is consecrating the Eucharist. It is also a suffering, as is childbirth. Romero was murdered during Mass. Be at peace. It is not necessary for the Church to change it's position on the impossibility, ever, of women becoming priests. We women are already quite endowed without that added suffering/privilege.
agape and eros to us all, from Martie (P.S.: read Benedict XVI's 2007 Lenten letter on eros and agape)

Martie, Tinton Falls,

If women are not allowed to be ordained in the Roman Catholic Church, then the Seven Sacraments can never be available to half the world's population. Is this what God intended? The only way I can imagine making the sacrament of Holy Orders equally valuable to both sexes is to empower women to celebrate the Eucharist as ordained priests. Perhaps the Roman Catholic Church will follow the way of Protestantism, and hold that only two sacraments - Baptism and Holy Communion - are "essential to salvation." Whatever the case, given the number of exceptionally wise unsung heroines moving through a ravaged world, it is right and just to seriously consider the eligibility of women for the priesthood. If the Vatican rules this out, then the Anglican Church should say: "No deal."

Chad Nagle, Istanbul, Turkey

Truth is not to be compromised for the sake of unity.

chandler, lincolnton, nc

This was a very irresponsible and unprofessional article.

The document did not not put forth any "radical proposals" to reunite the two Churches at all - just some practical suggestions on how to work a bit closer at present and to think about how to proceeed to possible reunion.

And what on earth is "gay ordination"?! I didn't realise that someone could become gay by ordination.

The whole article is sloppily written.

Douglas Martin, Melbourne, Australia

I say "Amen" to what Bill Branham said! Beware the spirit of false unity.

Jonathan Togonon, Antipolo City, Philippines

"8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:8-10, New International Version)

Most people have basically the same Bible so look again into God's Word for His truth, not to anyone or anything else but Jesus and His Inspired Holy Bible, The Word of God!

Tim, Huntsville, AL

This is a fulfilment of Biblical prophecy. It is called the binding of the Tares. It is clear that ALL so called christian organisations adulterate the Pure Truth of the Original WORD of God which is Jesus Christ Himself (John 1:1, Hebrews 13:8, Galations 1:8, Revelation 22:17-19).

Gods children never call their parent a Liar - So you may not understand Gods word (ie all Biblical scripture) but you have to believe it - ie say it is true As Jesus commanded. Jesus say: "Come out of her, MY People and be not partakers of her plagues." Rev 18:4

Bill Branham, Jeffersonville, In USA

This is a further example of apostasy in the Church of England / Episcopal Church. They have abandoned the scripture given a rule of faith and practice for the church. The CofE ordains homosexuals and women in direct contradiction to scripture, and now seek to join with the Roman Catholic Church. My protestant brothers, Calvin and Luther abandoned the Romanish church, for its apostasy, abandonment of the scriptures and enthronement of the Bishop of Rome as an anti-Christ. The Romanish church has not repented of their apostasy and the CofE want to add apostasy on top of apostasy and have a large synagogue of Satan. Let the dogs return to the vomit of the past. ...But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

ROBERT MOSBY, richmond va, usa

I would like to correct the person who said that the Catholic Church teaches you have to do good works to be saved. This has already been settled. The Catholic Church has already signed an agreement over this misunderstanding with the Lutheran Church..ofcourse Christ has saved us all. There is an old Catholic tradition that says England lost its Faith under the first Queen Elizabeht and she will regain it under the second Queen Elizabeth. I pray that it comes true

Joan Sheridan, Needham, MA USA

OK, which is it? Faith by works or Grace. If its By works Ill joint the Catholic Church, by Faith ill join the Protesant Church. How can I have it both ways.
Ok another problem i have. Is the body of Christ in a piece of bread and wine, or is communion an act of rememberence, I cant have it both ways I think Ill stick to what my Bible says. There is enough information in there to learn on how to follow Christ for a life time.

David, Belleville,

Well, the archenemy is sure laughing his head off, along with his cronies...

Unity at all costs is no unity, as some have argued above, and Roman Catholicism is not Biblical Christianity. This does not mean that there are no serious and sincere Catholics out there who don't know God for themselves - but the theology of this particular denomination will not stand serious intellectual scrutiny as philosophical concept, never mind theological scrutiny from anyone, scholar or layman, who makes it a priority to read the Bible for themselves from cover to cover in order to have a personal understanding of both a) who God is (inasmuch as our humans minds can comprehend) and b) what His will is for us who would follow Him.

Salvation by works is somewhat closer to Judaism and Islam than Christianity. The concept of salvation by works means that the idea of an actual spiritual existence with an ontological deity is null and void. The Reformation freed the world from a terrible tyranny.

Alexander, Liverpool,

How strange that the first response in this comments suggests that Salvation is still by works. Salvation was acheived by Christ. Accept that and you are saved. Good works will follow but they sure don't buy your Salvation.

There will be no unity under one pope. Thank God that the current pope is the last one. The roman catholic church will soon be finished.

Joe, Darwen, UK

I am not sure which is the funniest - all these American Christian fundamentalist bin Laden lookalikes raving on in the most uncharitable (and thus unchristian) manner, blithely unaware of the self-revelatory ludicrousness of their complete ignorance of the subject matter about which they think they know everything, or their astonishing effrontery to interfere, Ian Paisley-like, in matters that do not concern them.
The Anglican-Roman Commission is discussing relations between the Anglican and Roman Churches. These American religious loonies -and Ian Paisley- are members of neither and should go and examine their own navels instead of somebody else's for a change.

Gerard Mulholland, Paris, France

Salvation by faith alone is a grave protestant error. One must perform works in order to be saved. The Catholic Church teaches things such as charity, forgiveness of others - these things are works by which graces are earned.

Arun, Wanganui,

True Christians follow Christ and Christ alone as made evident in His Word alone. Any deviation from that is false teaching from an apostate religion. I just read in the book of Mark that the Jews in Christ's time lived their lives based on their own ideas and traditions. Woe unto us if we do the same...Christianity is not traditions set up by imperfect men who can as easily fall prey to their own desires as falling asleep at night. Christianity is following the One True Savior...Jesus Christ. Any denomination that follows the tradition of men is not "Christian"...But a religion of their own making. God help us all follow Christ and Christ alone and no man, pope or any other human.

Susie, Los Angeles, USA

The churches should agree to offer each other's members the bread and wine of communion, acknowledging a unity of beginnings and ends underpinning difference - a human, God-given insight.

Benedict Clark, London,

The Roman Catholic Church is not a Christian Church because it teaches a false gospel of salvation by the good works of the sinner. Christians believe that we are saved by God's grace ALONE and that we are declared righteous before God by Faith in Jesus Christ alone. Christ has done all the work necessary for our salvation, already on the cross. We can not add anything to that or else we deny that Christ is Saviour. How can Christians join in unity with Rome even if there are some believers in the pews.
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8)

Neil, Liverpool, UK

For those who are hot on the concept of unity - what sort of unity is Christ promoting. Funny how in Matthew 18 Christ gives instructions for excommunication, basically.

What about Paul and all those false teachers? Gee, I wish he just told us to hug and get along.

Sorry for being sarcastic, but things like this just seems so foolish. There can be two main ways to unity between two groups of differing ideologies. The differences can be ignored, and people unite under false pretenses. But since the differences are fundamental, opposing, stances of doctrine, that is unacceptable--and somewhat schizophrenic. The other road to unity involves one side giving ground to concede to truth, then uniting--not under compromise, but under truth.

Eph 4:11-4:14 - We have been given so that we could grow, not be as children, who are "tossed by every wave of teaching". The goal is unity "by faith, and in the knowledge of the Son of God." People split from Catholicism because their teachings on faith (even saving faith, for instance) and the knowledge of the Son of God did not at the very least unite the Bible. Unity on every other point without foundation of theology is at best a sham, at worst futility.

Gordon, Chicago, IL

So the protestant martyrs of the Reformation, like Latimer and Ridley , executed because they opposed unbiblical Catholic teeachings, died for nothing? The Reformation was a mistake? The Vatican (leaving aside its corruption in other spheres) endorses praying to the dead, bowing to statues of Mary, the sinlessness of Mary, and that Mary was co-redeemer with Christ, among other falsehoods. None of these can be found in the Bible, and some are condemned by scripture. And as for the authority of thePope, and popes being in the direct line of Peter ...

Joe, Ipswich, UK

Unity is the will of God. Fighting, accusing, labeling,uncharitableness, narrowness... this leads to the type of divisions and hatreds that afflict the followers of Mohammed. Christ opposes all disunity in Jn.17, and prays that we will be united in Love as He and the Father are One, a perfect communion. This should be the faith and value of evey person who claims to accept Jesus and His Gospel. May all Christians of every denomination and profession seek out this Trinitarian Love for one another, as He loves us! Anything less is not worthy of God.

John, League City, USA

Does anyone understand the prophecies of Daniel and their revealing in the Book of Revelation.
All these are the unfolding of prophecy.

Interested to learn? I can point these out. Check your History. Rome hnever changes. She is working her best to take control again. She will rule again andd come to her end. This time not like in 1798, but as is recorded in Revelation 18: 7-9. We are prety close to see the begining of her rule.

Hilma, Orlando,

Praise God that this is happening.

How will anyone want to become Christian and get to know God's love if all they see is animosity and arguements between denominations.

And won't someone tell Libby Purves to read into the church teaching before making comments she knows nothing about?

The Church teaches that sex is an amazing thing and in its fullness reflects God's love for us and ultimate respect for the human body and soul which is why its is why it stresses it should be kept within the holy sacrament of marriage. Read John Paul II's teaching on the sexual revolution - it seriously is incredible.

Bring on the unity, in whatever form it may take. May it bring more people to know they are loved and not inspire more arguements.

Anna, Brighton,

I'm a young catholic studying in london. i went to an anglican school abd have been a part of many anglican sevices, i go to mass regularly and i believe that unity between the 2 churches is the best thing that could happen. plus it is the right thing

victoria, london, UK

Oh my these corporate mergers are going too far
or is this a take over by the RC church?
So the Royal head of the Anglican church will report to the Pope?

Many great people will roll over in their graves if this happens.
Martin Luther would never allow this.

Gerry H, Burnaby, BC, Canada,

Ebief of Norway - Does your Bible not contain James 2:24? "Ye see then how that by works a man is justified and NOT by faith alone?"

Cynthia, Carleton Place, Canada

Ebief of Norway - I worship Him that Saves each and every day when I recieve Holy Communion. I bvelieve that he is present each and every time in that wonderful sacrament, just as he promised he would be. Oh, and I do this having listened to and meditated upon the scripture readings for the day.

And today, after Mass, I lit a candle for you at the Shrine of Blessed Mary and prayed that, like her, you may learn to be gentle and gracious.

William , London,

Since Vatican II and subsequent watered-down Catholicism anything is possible in the Catholic Church. The hierarchy of Modernism is open for business. They'll just eliminate the sacraments, downplay the Mass, Christ's presence in the Eucharist, Catholic instruction.

Rex, CO,

Once Christians come to realize Original Sin is not taught in scripture it will unravel lots of other false teachings within the Christian churches. Be like the Beareans and study the scritures for yourselves. If unity is all you seek then you will pay a high price. Jesus said, "you shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free."

Richard Wittemann, Charlotte, USA

Edward Johnson mentions Fidei Defensor, the title bestowed on Henry VIII by Pope Leo X in October 1521. This was in recognition of Henry's defence of the Roman Catholic faith, not the Christian Faith, in writing the book, "Assertio Septem Sacramentorum" (Defence of the Seven Sacraments), which was an important opposition to the ideas of Martin Luther, in the early stages of the Protestant Reformation.

In 1544, the English Parliament conferred the title "Defender of the Faith" (meaning the Christian Faith, not the Roman Catholic faith), on Edward VI and his successors, who are now the defenders of the established Church, the Anglican faith, not the Christian Faith.

Barry Holroyd, Leeds, West Yorkshire, England

The anti-Catholics on this website seem to be from another planet. Since when did the Catholic Church put tradition over divine revelation. Jesuit "futurism" was never widely adopted by the Church. If we are going to make historical claims, how about we back it up with some evidence?

Amy Richards, Forked River, NJ

Let's get a few things straight. If either the Anglican eccelesial community or the Orthodox Church wished to come back into communion with the See of Peter and be Catholic (the term 'Roman Catholic' if properly used should designate Roman Rite Catholics ) they need to accept the teachings of the Church. From the Assumption to Papal Infallibility, and from the abhorrence of artificial contraception to the evil of induced abortion.

If this is what is proposed, then let us celebrate and rejoice for the schisms have been undone. If not no amount of proclamations from oecumenical bodies with no Church authority will make the slightest bit of difference.

Darren Collins, Oxford, UK

In my opinion it would be helpful if more protestants like myself were to attend a Catholic mass. I suspect they would find the whole experience quite revealing. Catholics do read the bible. Whereas most 'Bible Believing' non conformist churches have only one bible reading in a service the liturgy of the mass includes no less than three. Anglicans in particular would find far more similarities than differences with their eucharistic service.
It would make the churches far stronger if they would unite under one common government. This would be a development which would benefit both the anglican and catholic communions and would undobtedly lead to beneficial changes in both.

P, Swansea, Wales

Dear David Leslie,

I believe that Christ created one church, and i believe that e christians are all in. The union of the churches would be very important to regain the faith of millions of people that have lost fatih not only to the Catholic Church, but to the Christianity as well.
By the way, Defender of the Faith was a title given by the pope to Henry VIII, (Defensor Fidei),

We have to stand united.

Edward Johnson, Newcastle, England

Ebief of Bergen, Norway, where oh where did you learn all those nasty and funny ideas about the Catholic Church. You need to do a course.

Father Bryan Storey , Tintagel, UK

Would this mean that all Anglican communicants would suddenly become RC and this a Roman Catholic instead of Protestant country? Would we lose such benefits as contraception and have to attend Mass on Sunday. What would happen to Protestants in Northern Ireland? What happens to the Queen, as Defender of the Faith (and leader of the Church of England) Have the Bishops, in their infinite wisdom, actually considered anything other than their own very narrow viewpoint, when considering this move?

David Leslie, Perth, Scotland

Can you resurrect two corpses by putting them in the same grave? The appalling theological weakness of both these institutions beggars belief. The CofE was always at best a crypto-Catholic institution ('but halfly reformed') that prized superficial unity above Scriptural fidelity. Conversely, the Catholic communion places human tradition above divine revelation and the right of private judgement of Scripture. Their union is irrelevant to the progress of the Church in the world since a true believer's faith stands in direct individual relationship with God. It seems to me that until these institutions address their inability to engage with the solafidian aspects of the Bible then their respective structures serve no effective purpose. In fact, their continued existence hinders the effective communication of Christian truths to the rest of humanity. Semper reformanda.

JL, Paris, France

Catholics should read and learn the bible and not believe what clergy is telling them. Mary is dead, and not co redemtrix, along with all the aledged saints. Jesus is Lord. "Come out of her my people, and be not partaker of her sins"
-Rev. 18:4
Believe the Gospel, you are saved by faith alone, and do not need any catholic church!

Catholics, please repent. Worship him that saves, not the dead, for it is forbidden by the Lord: Thou shall not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them...[...]
-2nd commandment

I will pray for you

ebief, Bergen, Norway

It would be wonderful to see a reunion between the Roman Catholics and the Church of England. For centuries they have gone their own way, shaping the minds of their adepts differently. But today the planet is too small to stay apart, confronted with bigger and common problems to solve. The smaller sized Methodist Church could gain a lot of strenght by reuniting.

Phil, Paris, France

Dear Ruth, as a Roman Catholic I knew that my Church had accepted married priests from the Church of England. But it is only by ready your magnificent comment that I came to realize this: although the RC Church has taught for generations that couples should not use contraception and that priests should be celibate, this is all rubbish! Those two rules which were supposed to reflect «God's will» have suddenly been put aside: we now have married Roman Catholic priests who use contraception.

Viviane Forest, Montreal, Canada

It is Ash Wednesday and time to call an end to the thread....I am an English RC & I will go to Mass today (although it is not required) and receive the mark of the cross on my forehead.....telling me my time is short and to be about my good works...Still what a thread it has been! Outraged overseas Anglicans—the does their ire increase with their distance from England?—overjoyed Catholics, accompanied by some beautiful prayers, infuriated atheists: “Sir, I heartedly condemn any union with the CoE and Roman Catholicism. I am an atheist but”...followed by assorted charges of Catholic intolerance, ignorance and bigotry (!)…But Christ would bless you all & so shall I.... and I would hope—not sure if I should pray--that the passing of time will improve the temper of the atheists!

Mary Shelley, London, England

Jesus prayed hard and long for unity before He died. Catholics are truly Bible Christians.

Father Bryan Storey , Tintagel, UK

It is not surprisng that the Anglican Church along with many other of the mainline denominations should desire to go back to the Church of Rome, as many live in ignorance of the great 16th Reformation and that that it accomplished. Furthermore milions have been seduced by the Jesuit doctrine of "Futurism" which places the "Antichrist" at end of the age, a man of great power to reign during the mythical 7 year great tribulation. Whilst all the time, the antichrist in the form of the papacy has been sitting in comfort in the Vatican. Oh wake up England.

Gadsden, Bexhill, England

We should all thank the Lord that Catholics and Anglicans are at long last speaking together - and working for unification - as all true Christians should. Minor differences should not stand in the way of unity under Christ, the Lord. How many wars have been fought by religious fanatics - on both sides - claiming the "the Lord is on OUR side!"

During the 40 days of Lent this year, let us all pray for peace among all Christian communities; that all Christian denominations show good will and love towards their neighbor so that non-Christians may point to them and remark "See how they love one another"....as was the case in Biblical times!

Oremus pro invicem !

Peter Murphy, MOnte Carlo, MOnaco

Is a hatred of homosexuals and a contempt for women enough commonality?

David Reid, London, England

A check measure should be made in the proposed union to avoid what led to a fallout which led to the reformation. this also good news to the world church. Forces of evil are uniting against good and its time the church ccame together for good

Kamau, Nairobi, Kenya

The Bible says be ye separate and come out from among them. It is wrong for any bible believing church or denomination to align themselves with the apostate Catholic church.

Kevin Walters, Henderson, USA Ky.

i believe that division of churches was a thing of men ,selfish ones , lets pray we all gather in the same table praising the Lord.
im catholic and i love the idea of ecumenism , i think its time to all Christian Churches to return home , i mean Roman Catholic Church, the first of all christian churches , the root where they ve learnt about Jesus .
God Bless you all .

Maria Alicia, parana, Argentina

Christians who are true to Christ see no barriers of denomination. It is about time we pledge allegiance to Christ and not to our rituals and preferences!! This is good news!!

Scott, England,

There is a magnificent history of difference in the Anglican church, which has roots as a seperate entity going far back before Henry VIII. For me it is essential that the church in which I worship has the face and voice of my cutlure, which is English. Substantial doctrinal differences remain and more importantly, to me at least, there are differences of style and emphasis whcih are unique in the the Chruch of England - especially the idea that there is no human ulitmate authority (such as the Pope) thus making the C of E so much more flexible and real. By acknowledging the limits of human understanding of God's will, the Church of England is so much closer to Christ that the Roman church. The day they unite under the Pope is the day I leave the Church

peter edwards, calgary, alberta

The Church is the Bride, not the Harem, of Christ. Unity between Christians does not have to mean the extinction of certain Christian traditions. How decorated ones altars are or whether you pray to the saints or not are just icing on the cake. The Gospel of the Crucified Messiah, Jesus, is what makes us into Brothers and Sisters. I hope both Anglican and Roman Catholic Christians can come together in such a way that invites more and more Christian assemblies into Fellowship, One Body, One Bride, One Banquet with One God!

Laura , Boston, USA

I grew up in the Irish Republic where Church of Ireland and Roman Catholics hardly speak to each other. Cof I thinks it's superior ro RC and for years controlled the ecomony. Can't imagine the two uniting under the Pope in S Ireland and it would cause blood and guts in NI. Some Cof I people think the Pope is the anti-Christ, which is ridiculas, although out present Pope was formally a member of the anti-Christ's youth and the anti-Christ himself was aso Catholic - although there were and are some terrible Protestants too: Cromwell/Paisley - but where do you leave the Spanish Inquisition? Best leave well enough alone in the circumstances: these two could never unite. Each think the other wrong - but both are wrong and Hinduism is right. At the end of the day I believe in reincarnation despite the fact that I do go to church most Sundays.

Nerys Swan, Pembroke Dock, Wales

What many seem to be missing here is the fact that such a union would not necessarily mean that the Anglicans become Catholics. It would simply mean that the Anglican Church would be in communion with the Holy See, essentialy recognizing the same theological principles. The Anglican Church could still remain a separate entity and its property would not be handed over to the Vatican. The primary impact would be in recognizing the authority of the Pope in theological matters. The Byzantine, Armenian and Ukrainia Catholic Churches are all Churches that have retained their unique identities while being in full union with the Holy See.

Jim, Ohio, USA

Has nobody read "Dominus Iesus" ? What about fundamental issues of belief, such as Transubstantiation, Virgin Birth etc, to say notihing about Roman Catholic doctrine on birth control etc.

The Roman Catholic Church is an intolerant prescriptive church with no time for any individual christian wishing to find his own way to God - vs the present Pope's views on "relativism". It would be ironic if under the most intolerant, narrow minded Pope for decades (out of a pretty bad lot !) the Anglican church should surrender its independence.

Long live the 39 Articles: "...the Bishop of Rome has no jurisdiction in this realm of England..." Long may it so remain.

A somewhat lapsed anglican living in France.

David Dunn, 19500 Ligneyrac, France

I am a Roman Catholic from Málaga (Spain). I am very happy that the reunification arrive. Here, in Málaga and in all the Costa del Sol, there are many Anglicans living with us. The Diocese of Málaga permits Anglicans to celebrate their services in our Catholic parishes, as a sign of our common vocation. We have no problems to do that, and Anglicans have no problems either. In fact, they celebrate their annual meetings of the Anglican Diocese in Europe, -the synod of Gibraltar- in our Catholic Seminary chappel, and there is no problem at all.
Anglicans and Roman Catholics have no serious problems to meet together and to look for solutions to our historical divisions.
So, I realize that there are no so many problems for the unification, and I really believe that we need unity in our world to spread the Gospel. If we are divided, it is a real problem. I will be very happy when Anglicans and Roman Catholics be united, following Christ's words.
Reunification does not mean that Anglicans become Roman Catholics. It does mean that we, both Anglicans and Roman Catholics, be called just CATHOLICS. We need it. We need to be one Church. And we can achieve it with God's grace.

Javier G., Málaga, Spain

In some respects, this article reads like a merger proposal or a take-over at the suggestion of controlling 2 controlling stock-holders. But this is not GM & Chrysler. The smaller church is the historical Yugo but the end result makes both churches look like 'winners'.....Christianity, for some, would mean no more tresspassing (wars) and no more imperialism (financial dominion) but more fellowship and peace-seekers. Blessed are the peace-seekers and this is not missles but the return of the missal prayer-book.

Donna Smith, Delaware, USA

The Anglican Archbishops concerned seem to have overlooked the fact that the most dynamic part of their own church is evangelical. Evangelical Christians generally have some big issues with Roman Catholic doctine that are nothing to do with sexuality or women priests. What about the role of the mass, transubstantiation, Papal infailibility, the 'worship' of Mary, the very notion of the church as the church as the arbiter of what is true and what isn't rather than the bible etc, etc.? I suspect that if the Anglican Church were to proceed with such a union many of their congregations would leave.

Andy, Derby, UK

This very event was prophesied over 100 years ago, which at that time seemed an absolute impossibility! In fact, the author was decried as a heretic by Protestants. For those who want to know the future as given by God's inspiration, read Ellen G. White's book The Great Controversy. Judge for yourself. There is more to come, as you will read...

Kris, Boise, USA

The formation of the Anglican church was a 'divorce' from the Catholic church. The reasons were 'sour grapes' or hard feelings or personal individual feelings of Henry VIII in order to keep his power base while keeping 'a faith'...He was more of a "Henry-ite" than an Anglican. He wanted it HIS way. Now, nobody cares about Henry VIII or his wishes,desires,hopes & dreams but historically it is interesting to examine him. When I see someone wanting it this way, they become followers of "themselves" it is a kind of self-worship with allegiance to no one but themself.

Donna Smith, Delaware, USA

Wow. So many people who know so much... but how do they know it? How do we know that so many self erected viewpoints are the correct ones?

The one person who actually used the Bible (this would be the truth that the church is the pillar and foundation of) got the quote wrong. Its 1st Timothy 3:15, not 2nd.

So how does one follow Christ? Do the follow a man-invented Christ? Or the Christ of the New Testament? And then, do you only pick and choose the parts of the New Testament that you like?

What about the Christians who hate Jews yet claim to follow Christ? Why isn't their version correct?

Does it get made up as you go along? And *WHO INDEED* gets to make it up?

J Clark, New York City,

It was commented once that the Church of England was the bastard daughter of the Church of Rome. This has been proven to be "prophectically" true. It indicates the further decay and rejection of true biblical religion as revealed in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments alone. Again we see not only the departure from the faith but also a purifying of the true church of God. It is best to be small that to join ranks with Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, who caused Israel to sin. May God bring another reformation and that the truth of justification by faith alone may once be proclaimed upon the shores of the United Kingdom

william, Omagh, United Kingdom

Susan Parkinson seems to forget the agony in the garden, and the submission by Christ that he would do His Father's will and be crucified. He later spoke of Peter as the keeper of the keys to the gates of Heaven:
If Susan ever gets there, I suppose she will say that it is her mission to enter Heaven even if not allowed.
As ever - Christianity a la carte to suit oneself and to hell with the rest! If all one believes is in one's self, then I am surprised that some people ever lower themselves to be taught at University or wherever to contaminate their omnisapience.

R L Chapman, Lowestoft, England

First it should be important to have Vince from Glasgow understand that marriage and sexuality are fundamental issues for Christianity because they are intimately tied in to the Christian understanding of creation, the image of God, and the order of human life.

Second, Susan from Maidstone needs to recall that Jesus never made it up as he went along but always and everywhere stated that he was doing the will of God. In turn Jesus told his followers always and everywhere that they needed to leave themselves behind, seek first the Kingdom of God, and in denying themselves find true life.

John Chagnon, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA

Reply to Susan Parkinson from the UK:

The Catholic Church no longer tells anyone "What to think" as you put it. The Pope does define doctrine and occasionally gives encyclicals regarding matters of faith and morals but these speeches have a historical accuracy and do not stray from prior beliefs. As an Anglican, surely you see the similarity of Creeds of both faiths. These 2 faiths have more in common than in difference. "What to think" can mean anything from what will I wear today to what dvd will I rent? Even films are no longer banned or forbidden. The Catholic Church originated the theory of "free will", didn't they teach you that in your education? Free will is about choice. God does not force his will upon mankind. The Catholic Church has promoted Democracy in the modern world. That is Democracy with a capital "D" not a small "d", which would sublimate an entire kingdom to the concept of a monarchy which is democracy with a small "d" & not even a Constitution.

Donna Smith, Delaware, USA

Jack Howell. It's really helpful being in touch with Mary and the Saints. I can recomend it.

Father Bryan Storey , Tintagel, UK

God is listening my prayers... This news are so good, but I fear that nothing will happens, unfortunatelly. I'm a brazilian Roman Catholic who loves Europe and who loves British people, culture and history. The atheism of nowadays permit things like the growing of islamic voices in UK... Things like not to celebrate Christmas "to avoid insult the others faiths..." Could you imagine it in the 1930's or 1940's England? Or Islamic countries avoiding celebrations to not "insult Christians"? The re-union of Church of England with Rome couldn't come in better times...

Marco , São Paulo, Brazil

I believe that there is great virtue in having separate churches with separate traditions. Whilst I am a practising Catholic, there are members of my family and friends, who are Anglican and they get a great deal out of their faith and I am not sure they would feel entirely comfortable within my church. There are still substantial doctrinal differences, although I believe that we are all really united by our love of Christ. As long as there is no rancour between the churches (and its believers), I rather like the idea of people finding God within their own respective traditions, whilst of course praying all the time for people of all other denominations.

Jonathan, London, England

As the Catholic partener in a mixed marriage, I believe that this issue has to be approached with the greatest understanding and mutual respect.

Modern technology has given us a system of instant world-wide communications, which has made it possible for us all to understand each other better. Moreover the defeat of fascism in WWII has made the modern Catholic Church very wary about the tools of imperial administration which were inherited from secular government in the past, and the modern Church is very different from the one that existed before Vatican II.

The time has come for dialogue among equals in all the different communities of the Christian Faith. We have the communicative tools provided by modern technology, and the historical opportunity provided by world peace among all those who are involved.

Edmund Burke, Kingston upon Thames, England

I am an American with a PhD from an elite institution, and I care. So leave your nasty stereotypes out of this, please, Mr. Cheverall. Somehow you obviously care too, since you bothered to post here.

More importantly, however, I think union with Rome is a terrible idea, as is the notion of chasing some myth called Christian unity. The reason Christianity continues to flourish in the US and has died out in much of Europe has nothing to do with flawed American education. It has to do with the First Amendment and the subsequent disestablishment of religion. The monopoly churches of Europe failed their parishoners, and so reasonable people left. In the free market religious environment of the US, people for 200 years have been able to find a church that meets their needs. And thus Christianity thrives in America.

The best thing that ever happened to the gospel was Christian disunity. May it continue!

Dave Johnson, Chicago, Illinois, USA

Susan, Catholics believe in thinking like Jesus. Isn't that good?

Father Bryan Storey , Tintagel, UK

Combining the Anglicans and RCs would definitely enhance the Pope's cv. He'll be all for it! Oh, and what about the assets of the Anglican Church?

Good move for the Vatican!

Maxadolf, Epsom, Surrey

How does all this affect the Government of the
United Kingdom, since some Bishops sit in the House of Lords ?
The CofE also own and administer vast properties, which would otherwise have been ceded to the Crown. What are the outworkings of this?

Jack Howell, Cambridge,

I think it doubtful that unity of any kind can be imposed from above, or by 2 different hierarchies joining their leadership teams in any formal way. We should be working for a greater understanding and dialogue, not in a vacuum but by jointly working on representing and working for Christ in our local communities. Once we are able to co-operate on such projects as offering healing and teaching, working with the disenfranchised and for justice and peace, then perhaps a new structure might arise and be helpful. Until then I feel it more likely to be a distraction, or more harmfully bringing into the spotlight factors which show how divided we currently are.

Fiona Gibbon, Purley, UK

I think this is disgraceful journalism. A visit to the anglican communion website is necessary to discover the truth behind this article. I think The Times should apologise for misrepresentation.

Until hearing of this article, I had always considered The Times a quality daily newspaper. Now I am not so sure.

Disappointed Reader, Aberdeen, United Kingdom

This is the most ridiculous idea I have heard of for some time. Have events in Ireland and Glasgow over the past 100 or so years not demostrated that this idea will not work. Its no wonder fewer people are going to church now when the ideas being thrust on them bear no resemblence to their beliefs. If not properly checked it'll lead to a schisam in both Catholic and Anglican Churches with an extremest wing developing. In some ways the Conservative Party is also heading in this dangerous direction.

Tim, London, UK

There is only one Church of Jesus Christ. Denominations are not from God and have weakened the impact of the Church in our communities. I pray that all the pastors in each community around the world will start having Christian Fellowship with each other to display and encourage the unity that our heavenly Father desires for his Church.

For HIS Glory,

Ben Wardlaw, Hilton Head Island, USA / South Carolina

People need to remember the main reason why the church of england split from the vatican & pope. It was simply because Henry VIII didnt get his divorce approved by the Pope, so decided to break away from the Vatican so he could become leader of the church of england. So in effect the split came about because of non religous beliefs and is currently headed by someone with no link to the succession of christ or st peter (leader of the church). I expect that the reason some anglicans dont wish to reunite is simply because they wish to be part of a more relaxed religon which the church of england currently offers them. As a roman catholic i dont think that this will work, simply because the Anglican church is so much more relaxed then the catholic one. It would be nice if it did happen though.

Harry, Worcester, England

What has been considered regarding the worship of Mary and the Saints ?

Jack Howell, Cambridge,

What is needed is for the Catholic Church to recognise that it is the breakaway church and that our current disunity as Christians is ultimately down to its historic actions and attitudes. If Anglicans are looking to return to their Mother church/'home', they should prayerfully consider the Orthodox Church, which is the original unified church from which, the Catholic's in their arrogance, broke away. Better still, let us throw all the religious tripe into the bin and focus on the one who who is so misunderstood by those who promote religion, our Lord Jesus Christ. He modelled love, mercy, power and a simplicity of approach that makes religion look foolish. It's what man has created that divides us.

James Hall, Worcester, UK

will the Queen become the Head of the Catholic Church in the new reorganisation?

rodney meere, redditch, worcs

The biggest problem facing the Church of England is its refusal to teach, and to live by the Scriptures, rather than being as least controversial as possible. The Bible is very clear on the whole gay question, as it is on other issues such as the Sabbath. As both a Messianic Jew and a theology graduate, I see the established church doing much the same as we do with the Talmudic Writings - too often the clear word of Scripture loses out.

Michael Cunningham, Sittingbourne, England

The article makes a quite extraordinary statement about "Anglicans' squabbles over the fundamentals of Christian doctrine". What fundamentals? The nature of the atonement, perhaps, or the real presence, well maybe, but the blessing of same sex couples, fundamental? How absurd.

I have had the good fortune to attend services in a number of Episcopal churches in the USA. They have been welcoming and inclusive, the standard of worship has been high and the preaching exceptional. When the schism comes I shall be applying for alternative episcopal oversight from the American liberals, who seem to me to be attempting to follow Christ rather than obsessing about sex and shunning their brothers and sisters.

Oh and James from Wellington, you have no idea how close you are to the Romans. You are absolutely convinced that you and you alone are in possesion of the truth.

Vince, Glasgow, UK

It makes sense, since both faiths adhere to the main principles of the Nicean council and believe in 'one holy Catholic and apostolic church'. The Anglican church clearly has need for a stronger central authority to keep local ministries from deviating from proper doctrine and making political stands on the pulpit.

Chris Smith, South Burlington, VT, USA

Answering to Susan, nowadays in the Catholic Church there is a dangerous free-thinking. I mean that teologist are very careful about saying unconfortable stuff and sometimes they are prohibit to teach and so on. So the situation is terrible, yes, but teologist are being very brave.

Think on the other direction. If Anglicans and Catholics get united, his issue you are mentionet out will be more central, and may be we will have a bias toward improve the current situation.

After all, we are all together. I can mean a personal sacriface of you, but also a service to a wider church. I ask you for help.

Hector Palacios, Barecelona, Spain

It has always been a fact for England that from the time St. Augustine had been sent by Pope Gregory the Great to this land to begin formal Christianization of the Angles, the Christian patrimony has always been that of the west. There is no equivocality on that. History will always attest to that. So if the Anglicans would somehow view Rome as encroaching into their religion, I think, it would be enough for them to think that whatever link England holds to the Apostles, it has always been through Catholicism via the zealous monks sent by the Roman Church.

So to bridge back to the Mother of particular churches is like coming back home for Anglicans. They need to drink from the fount of truth that springs from "the foundation and pillar of truth" (2 Timothy) in a world set confused by the dizzying claims of truth. To salvage what still remains in the the word Christianity is at least and basically to reflect how the Church of Rome stood firm in the seven Ecumenical Councils.

Wilson Villalongja, Dumaguete , Philippines

The idea of Christian unity is laudable. What is there that really divides Catholics from Protestant but the insular English mentality which, though not always wrong (who IS always wrong?) led to the great Anglican-Catholic divide. Rome was not always in the right (WHO is always in the right?) and was probably swayed by its debt to the Spanish ultra Catholic throne to put down royal English claims. So: while Henry VIII was very probably right in his relations with the Pope of his day, should that issue continue to divide Christians between Catholics and Anglicans? Henry VIII was deeply concerned about his Tudor legacy; that is understandable. But should it continue to influence the faith TODAY?

Frans Sammut, Zebbug, Malta

Isnt it interesing that all of those who have commented on this story published in a British newspaper all but two reside outside the UK.
The fact of the matter is the vast majority of educated people in this country dont care whether Anglicans and Catholics re-unite, unite or decide to worship the man on the moon. Its an irrelevance, as we as a race progress religion will become more and more of an irrelevance and the only people left who stil believe in the superstition will be Americans who have been indoctrinated by their flawed education system.
Basically my point is : why are national newspapers publishing stories like this? We dont care. Leave it to the specialist fringe newspapers please

Greg Cheverall, London, UK

If our true and ultimate aim is Christian unity, then Anglicans and Roman Catholics would do well, sooner rather than later, to have a three way dialogue with the Eastern Orthodox. The Orthodox presence and involvement would shift the focus on to the faith as proclaimed and lived in the undivided Church of the first millenium. And of course, there would also have to be an openess to engage with those interested among the leadership of Reformed/Evangelical Churches.

Leon Carberry, Beckenham, England

The Anglican Church has serious problems at the moment, with bishops refusing to have communion with each other. Each provience seems to make up its own rules and do not really take advice from Canterbury. If the situation continues, the Anglican Church will collapse.
It would make sense to unite with Rome but I can never see that happening. The most we can wish for is the establishment of good relationships between the two Churches.

Lenny, Cork, Republic of Ireland

"that they may be one"

David Ulmer, Wilmington, OH, USA

I am an Anglican doing a post-graduate degree at a Roman Catholic College but I would never become an RC because I don't want to be told what to think. Jesus followed his own conscience and vocation. Respect for the individual who imitates Jesus in this way is of the essence of Christianity.

Susan Parkinson, Maidstone, UK

Intriguing isn't it, that the higher up the hierarchy one goes, the less people are allowed to join the club?

In the church I attend, it is irrelevant whether one is Gay, Straight, Catholic, Anglican, English, African, even Christian (sometimes), as long as you join us for fellowship and peace. I always understood the nature of Christianity to be "We'll have *anybody*!"

Jennifer Chambers, Bradford, England

If they do unite under the Pope I wonder what will happen to the vast capital assets accrued by the various Anglican sects over the years?

Who will own the Churches , largely built from the proceeds of taxes and contributions levied in various forms over the centuries , from worshippers whose allegiance was certainly not to Rome.

Perhaps they should be sold off and the proceeds distributed back amongst the poor and the rest of the populace.

Wouldn't that be the Christian thing to do?

I feel sure the Catholic Church has enough funds of its own to support its new flock.

Rob Green, Braintree, England

What a great testimony it would be to the efficacious power of prayer to see Anglicans and Catholics united under the Pope.

Eamonn Keane, Sydney, Australia

It is truly sad to see some Christians always digging in the past. Pope John Paul has acknowledged the errors of the past, so why always bringing them back? True disciples of Christ forgive as He did. Go and sin no more, he said. If He forgave, who are we to reject his ultimate prayer: That all his disciples be one...

Gilbert, Montreal, Canada/Quebec

Cardinal John Henry Newman spoke for thousands of us who having come to Catholicism are simply astonished how much we were affected by anti Catholic misunderstandings of our wonderful Faith. We need a strong listening to the Holy Spirit to clear up the human mess.

Father Bryan Storey , Tintagel, UK

In 1555, Bishops Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley were burned at the stake for their protestant faith. Latimer's words are worthy of repetition in the light of this article:

"Be of good comfort, Master Ridley, and play the man; we shall this day light such a candle, by God's grace, in England, as I trust shall never be put out."

I would echo his prayer today!

Dr William Holmes, Enniskillen, Northern Ireland

Good heavens above!
The Anglican leaders are not satisfied with embracing homosexual heresy, but now they want to ride the beast along with the same organisation that has killed more True Christians than any other organisation in History.
What was the Reformation all about? Why did the fathers of true biblical Christianity rather burn than embrace wrong Catholic beliefs, and now unity? No way! No unity before Biblical truth thanks very much.
My advice to Anglicans: Please do not follow this unbiblical religion to the grave, find yourself a group of believers that cares more about truth and worshipping God than siding up to the world.
A little bit of research into the role of the catholic church in the end times will be enough to warn any sincere seeker to stay well away from the Catholic church.

James, Wellington, New Zealand

Welcome to our separated brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus. We have waited a long time to unite in one Body. I hope I live to see the day that the Anglicans return to the one flock.

M, Carmichael, CA USA

As one non-Catholic leader pointed out, Christians ask the living to pray for them; so asking those who have died to pray for them is hardly that different. He said churches could tolerate their different emphases on this subject. Fr. John McKenzie, S.J., once cautioned that Christians must be wary of WANTING to be separate and multiplying reasons for being separate unnecessarily.

Richard L.A. Schaefer, Dubuque, USA

Unity is the sharing of the biblically-based faith that salvation is by grace, not by works, through the actual death and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. As it is written, we cannot be saved by anything else, nor is their any mediator between God and man but Jesus. Believers in the Holy Writ are called saints and the royal priesthood, with Jesus being our High Priest. All praise and all glory to God our Father in the name of His Son, Christ Jesus.

Ruth, St. Pete Beach, USA/Florida

It looks to me as if the conservatives are hoping that reuniting the Christian churches will bring the liberals back into line. I wonder how they would feel if there were a liberal pope rather than a conservative one. The acceptance of married clergy on the part of the pope was a tactical maneuvre rather than a change of heart. What is really needed is an open-minded acceptance that there are different was to be a Christian and they can all be based on reading of scripture. What is most important is faith and love. From my side the liberals seem to be willing to live this way but the conservatives don't.

I really don't think any sort of union of churches will do anything except make the people who can't or won't conform either go underground or leave. What is really needed is a sort of increasing mutual tolerance based on commonalities, and then we can talk about reuniting the churches,

Christopher Hobe Morrison, Middletown, NY, USA

There is a fundamental divide in our modern world between Christians who believe that Christianity must conform itself to ideas of the current age in morality, doctrine etc. and Christians who believe that there must be historical continuity with Christ, the Apostles, and the Church of past ages. Representing the first view, Episcopal Bishop Jon Spong put it thus: Christianity must change or die. Interesting isn't it that he lost over half of the members of his diocese because of his attempts to modernize Christianity? I am willing to predict that all attempts to modernize any church which involves a virtual denial of classic Christian teachings will be moribund.
That is why classically minded Anglicans worldwide may be feeling a lot closer to the Catholic Church than in the past. The Catholic Church is irrevocably committed to Christian unity but always based on a deep and rich continuity with the Christian heritage To do anything less smacks of betrayal of its fundamental principles, the sum of which is fidelity to Christ.

Kenneth , Champaign, Illinois, USA

Instead of flatout proclaiming Catholic beliefs as "wrong", educate yourselves on WHY Catholics do what they do.

An excellent book for this is 'Evangelical Is Not Enough: Worship of God in Liturgy and Sacrament', by ex-Anglican author Thomas Howard.

Jim, Lakewood,

I applaud any effort to promote Christian unity. The way Christianity has fractured into a multitude of denominations is scandulous. Christ prayed that his followers be one. He also told Peter, "upon this rock I will build my church." For better or for worse, the Catholic Church is the mother church to all other Christian denominations. It has stayed true to Christian morals and values for 2,000 years. Mary should not be an obstacle to Christian unity. I imagine this must break her heart. As Christ's mother, conceived without sin, she is also our "spirtual" mother and intecessor, but by no means do Catholics believe her to be a demigod. The reason Henry the VIII orginally split with the Catholic Church was because the Church would not grant him a divorce from Catherine of Aragon. I believe he had no qualms with any other Church teachings.

Greg Nuno, Los Angeles, USA/CA

England produced some of the greatest preachers and Christians that Christianity has seen. I don't understand completely what these Anglicans are thinking when they want to unite with Rome. The Roman church shed much protestant blood it would do the Anglicans good to remember this. Not to say it would happen again, I just wonder does the Anglican church forget that the great divide is still present. Simply put it is this. We are justified by faith plus nothing. That is what Luther, Calvin, Wesley, and all the reformers believed. The Roman church still insists that it is faith plus the Mass. Protestants believe that the Bible is our final authority in matters of faith. The Roman church believes that it is the bible, popes, etc. To my anglican brothers I say WAKE Up before it is too late.

Doug Ballew, Dublin, usa Virginia

Wow! I’m ecstatic with the news. It’d be a pleasure to be in communion with our Anglican siblings, thus fulfilling Jesus’ prayer, “that all be one like you and I are one.”

Iñigo, New Orleans, United States/LA

I have to confess I'm a little bit confused.
How will this affect the Church of England and laws in this country?
Could it lead to a change in abortion laws?

bo derek, Bristol,

O God, that it might happen. How amazing would it be to truly be one, Holy, catholic, and apostolic Church again, with those who are so close on doctrine anyways? I will definitely pray for this.

Greg, Charleston, SC

The rift within anglicanism can only result in a schism. Those who value the traditional teaching of christianity find themselves as common allies with Rome as against the modern onslaught now dividing their ranks. Those opting for liberal updating have now crossed the line into enemy territory. The prospect of unity is heartening, but with so much disarray in Rome one hopes a reunion is not at the expense of truth and orthodoxy.

Carl Kelly, Peabody , MA

Would divorced/2nd marriage partners of the Anglican faith be denied the right to communion under this partnership, as is present under the Roma Catholic church?

Michael Hudson, San Jose, Costa Rica

Church and Religion have been a traditional repository for individuals of a homosexual nature for years. I wish the Church would acknowledge this.

Feldwebel Wolfenstool, Thunder Bay, Canada

It will happen but not just yet. I have been at Mass in UK celebrated by a married priest (Ex Cof E) and I readily forecast this will happen again.

The issue with Anglican church is that some people see it as a menu system where thet can choose what to accept and what to ignore.

In the event of a communion I reckon 65% would join and the rest walk away to other churches.

Oliver, Surrey, UK

The pope is not believed to be Christ on earth, but the most important representative of Christ on earth, or vicar of Christ. As Calvin pointed out, baptism and confirmation makes Christians priests, prophets, and king (royal), and thus representatives of Christ, the anointed one or Messiah. Vatican II restated the idea that some doctrines are more central than others; that would include Marian doctrines as less central; basic doctrines are affirmed in the Creed said by Catholics, Orthodox, Anglicans, Lutherans, and Protestants.

Richard L.A. Schaefer, Dubuque, USA

The Anglican Church will not be joining with the Roman Catholic Church in the near future. There are too many theological barriers.

The Anglican Church has several provinces in which women can lawfully be ordained priest (and in some bishop) including in England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland. The RC will not accept that. The RC church will not allow it's priests to marry, will not allow contraception, believes in transubstantiation at the eucharist, the infalibillity of the Pope.
All of these are absolute impediments to utter unity between Anglicans and RC's.

D Hammonds, London,

The Lord can bring good out of evil and I believe this is what has happened here. People who truly follow Christ and who don't pick and choose biblical morality and tradition will again unite in the Church Christ established on earth led by an unbroken line of 'Peters'. God ALWAYS has had a representative on earth (Moses, Noah, Abraham...) and today this is the Pope. Out of over 300 Popes, we have had about 20 bad Popes BUT THEY HAVE NEVER TAUGHT HERESY. We are protected from this by the Holy Spirit who continues to guide the Church in all truth. That is why the world and the prince of this world hate her so much.
Welcome home.

Teresa, Albany, NY, USA

Christ's prayer was for unity in His church. All Christians should strive to fulfill an answer to His prayer. We must be cautious not to let the imperfections of men keep us apart. After all, we are all sinners. That is the primary reason we need Jesus Christ, and the primary reason that He paid the ultimate price for our salvation. But within this population of imperfect men, we must still seek unity, if for no other reason that is is a prayer that we can answer for Jesus Christ.

Jesse E. Williamson, Woodbridge, USA / Virginia

To me the basic question is 'do you want to follow the teachings of Jesus or the dictates of Rome or Nigeria?' Jesus was all-accepting, loving and kind. The actions of the Bishop of Nigeria, Peter Akinola, and of the Pope are contradictory to the actual teachings of Jesus. To exclude women who desire to follow the call of Jesus to preach his word, and to cast aside anyone who was born gay, is to deny the message of Jesus and to replace it with human desires for power and authority.

DW, Charlottesville, VA, USA

Since the Reformation, protestant denominations have continually split and split and split to the point that there are now over 30,000 of them, and more are formed every day. It's time to come home to Rome. Secularists have always celebrated the Reformation as proof of Christianity being just another false religion. Unity is the answer. If one has an objection to a particular Catholic doctrine, and is truly open minded, might I suggest researching the defense of said doctrine in books like "Catholicism and Fundamentalism" by Karl Keating.

Sandra Johnson, Boston, MA, USA

Oh how pleasing it would be for our Lord Jesus Christ to see this unification happen. For the "Father and the Son are one", so must we all Christians be. We should invite all Christians to continually offer prayers for this momentous event to reach its finality. And may God's blessings be upon us all. Amen.

Tony, ewa beach, usa/hi

Surely true unity must be based on TRUTH. What is THE source of TRUTH? Sola Scriptura?

Bowers, Gatton, Australia

As a Catholic, I will be glad to welcome all into Communion with God's Universal Church. I think it would wise for people with any misgivings to read the "Documents of the Second Vatican Council," so that they have a better understanding that the Holy Spirit acts through the Communion of all the Bishops. Jesus made us aware of the need, no the requirement for an ultimate interpreter of Church understanding and teachings. Hopefully, the Archbishop of Canterbury, in our lifetime, will ascend to the Papacy, as the Bishop of Rome; and, thereby, assuage any concern about the Pope's role. Vivat Jesus.

Ted Hayes, Manahawkin, USA / New Jersey

It's about time, I say. But look around us at the times that finally have brought us to this. All Christians are conscious of their minority status today, and that must change our attitude toward each other. Christian fellowship becomes precious in an increasingly deranged world.

The true church grows stronger under opposition and oppression, and relearns its essential truths and strengths. I pray this moves us all closer to God.

Ron Robertson, Wichita, Kansas

The news is encouraging. With so much relativism and liberalism today, the constancy of a united Christian Church
is very appealing. I'd also like to see a "uniate" status similar to the Eastern Rite/Byzantine Catholic Churches
and Rome.
I was raised Roman Catholic, but was drawn to the Episcopal Church as a young adult. There is much in common, and we are well acquainted with the differences.
Still, its good news that a dialogue has been going on for some time now. I beieve in and work very hard for Christian unity myself...

Dennis Govachini, Pittsburgh, USA

I am an American Anglican (not Episcopal), and a very pro-testant Protestant. I want nothing to do with a church system that has placed Mary, the humble servant of the LORD, on a co-redemtrix level with Jesus the Christ. She would be appalled at the movement of the last 40 or so years to elevate her to the demi-god level the Catholic Church has done. The Roman Catholic Church also holds Church tradition to the same level of authority as the Bible. Wake up Protestants, the Beast is stirring. If you think I'm off based, do some research, it's all there. Also, go back and read Luther, Jonathan Edwards and John Wesley they all saw the Roman Church for what it truely is... I say to my Christian brothers and sisters in the Catholic Church, "come out of her, and be ye separate."

Lisa, Loudoun, Virginia

A reunion of the Catholic and Anglican Churches? That would make for a few sticky problems for the Royal Family.

HM is Head of the Church of England and Defender of the Faith (this, since Henry VIII). The Act of Settlement restricts the succession to Protestant descendants of the Electress Sophia, and the Royal Marriages Act disbars anyone who marries a Catholic from the succession (these, from the Stuarts and Hanovers).

How does anyone propose to settle those issues?

Katheryne, Hawthorne, CA

The Pope is NOT the head of the Catholic Church. CHRIST IS! The Pope is the Vicar of Christ, through whom Christ watches over His flock!

John, St. Louis, USA

Good Grief people! Catholics DO NOT believe that the Pope is Christ on earth anymore than Anglicans do. As far as a Pope's authority goes, the Catholic Church does not collect taxes or imprison people for their beliefs. The worst they can do is excommunicate a person and deny him the sacraments. If you don't believe in them anyway, it shouldn't matter. Are people afraid of the power of the Catholic Church, or of discovering that truth can't be whatever they decide they want it to be?

There's a big difference between what the Catholic church teaches and practices and the reasons for the practices and teachings, and those that people THINK they know the Catholic Church to profess.

Therese, St. Louis, USA

It's ridiculous to single out Anglicanism as "dabbling in societal politics." Where do Romans draw their prohibitions on married clergy, condom and birth control use, therapeutic abortions, and gay marriage from? Some of those doctrines can be easily extrapolated from the text of the New Testament, but others are nothing but politics and prejudices skewing interpretation of vague or silent scriptures. Perhaps Anglicanism's support for inclusion and civil rights has no explicit authority in scripture, but neither does telling African Catholics they can't use condoms to protect themselves from the spread of HIV/AIDS. I understand Catholics believe Anglicans are perverting the Gospel, but what you must understand is that we feel the same about Rome's perversion of God's message of love for, acceptance of, and protection for all, that Christ gave his life a ransom for many. Rome dabbles in politics as much as any other, and it's every bit as repugnant to us Anglicans as we are to you.

Levi Harris, Chicago, Illinois, United States

It looks like we all have a lot to learn about what everyone else believes. If we can't even understand what our brothers in Christ believe, doesn't that highlight the need for a pontiff to clarify what truth is?

Regardless of whether you follow the Pope, or the Archbishop of Canterbury, or Rev. Spike from the First Mt. Zion Baptist Church or Rabbi Goldberg, it is incumbent upon all of us to continue to seek the truth. Our relationships with God are journeys, not destinations.

That said, as a Catholic, even if there is no union it may prompt all of us to reexamine our own beliefs and learn more about what our brethren really believe rather than rejecting what we "think" we know about each other.

Seek the truth and the truth shall set you free.

Kevin, West Chester, Ohio, USA

I say let the Episcopal church go it's way. They worship the state anyway. We Anglican's need to come home.

I've never felt good about the separation of Anglicanism from the Holy Catholic Church. Look at what our separation have wrought - celebrations of homosexuality from the pulpit.

We need to apologize and come home.

Tom Blair, perkiomenville, USA / PA

This is insane. Nobody should have their religion run from a foreign nation. The Anglican Church in every nation runs itself without some international leader. This is a strictly the Catholic Church trying to take over other countries. Do not let the Pope of Rome run England. What does the Anglican Church not understand by the term "Protestant". Have they forgotten how it came about? It meant that peoples protested against the oppression of the Catholic Church. I knew the United Kingdom was having problems, I didn't realize they are also comitting suicide.

David Whitten, New York, USA/New York

Unity under Rome is inevitable, not just for the Anglican church but all faiths. The title of the Roman Catholic Church is spelt out quite clearly in Revelation 17:5. The Lord says very clearly in Revelation 18:4 what all true believers should do. As a Roman Catholic for thirty years Iam eternally grateful to The Lord that He saved me from it, my sin, and from all religions. "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" 1 Timothy 2:5.

Peter Mullally, Manchester,

Any chance of really following what the Bible says on matters of faith and not what denominations may say? Literal interpretation vs. flexible interpretation still leads to each individual's belief and faith, and not being saved because they belong to a certain denomination. Salvation is granted to us as individuals when we choose it, not as a total corporate entity - whether it be Anglican, Catholic, Lutheran, etc.

Mike Holland, London, England

I am absolutely delighted to hear that Anglicans and Roman Catholics are looking to unite. I look forward to the day when we can move from "exchange of ideas" to "exchange of gifts" between the two churches. What fantastic gifts we can receive from one another! Surely this could lead to an amazing spiritual renewal within the UK in particular. Half empty and nearly empty churches could unite and be a full church receiving the warmth of Christ together.

Declan , Ely, UK

The religious will see this as a new beginning. The true believer will see this for what it truly is, the beginning of the end. Joshua 24:15b, Psalm 94:14, Rev 22:20.

Tim, Liverpool, UK

Is it Ms Gledhill who wishes to go to Rome? Such sensationalist, biased pro-RC coverage recently is really grating.

Benjamin , Glos,

If Christians all purport to be followers of Christ, then it is about time they overcame the man-made artificial barriers and differences - it is just logical. If the present moves are aimed at just that, then so be it - it is long overdue. I accept that certain beliefs and differences with the the Christian faiths are entrenched, and many are controversial, but they must not be insurmountable, if these developments are anything to go by. Most of us inherit our beliefs from our parents and have never critically queried them. To those who cry rights of all sorts while remaining Christians, I say style up - you somehow fail to query the right of Jesus Christ being your Lord, yet you continue hypocritically to query many of his commandments. You can't have it both ways really, if you ask me.

Stephen Lwetutte, London, United Kingdom

I entirely understand the need for Christian unity at the current time, but was attracted to my Church with the Queen at its head, as one to which I could relate both culturally and spiritually. I would never pledge allegiance to the Pope and Papal edict and feel deeply disturbed at the prospect.

OH, Maldon, Essex

My, my. How the loons have come out of the wood work to announce their opposition on reunicifcation. No sane person can deny the fact that Catholic Church has evolved into a kinder and gentler church. It is a force for good in the world that everyone benefits from. To espouse the dark side of its history as justification to pooh pooh reunification is ridiculous. Virtually every organization, religious or otherwise, has committed sins, yes even the Anglican Chuch. The trick is to learn from your mistakes.
If reunification strengthens both churches, I say go for it.

Janice, Inverkip, Scotland

At some point, all Churches will have to deal with Rome. John Paul the Great proposed to have a Church of Peter and the much larger Church Of Mary. The Church of Peter would still operate as the Roman Catholic Church. The Church of Mary would hold all those who desire unity but still have substancial disagreements with Rome. With this proposal, all would be in the Univeral Church. To the Church of Mary, the Pope would have no actual administrative role. The Pope would instead act as the "Pastor of Pastors" and a testament of love to all Christians. As an orthodox Lutheran, I don't think we should rule out this possiblity. Make no mistake, many, many of us still have substancial problems with Rome. But all of us can be bound together by love under the banner of the Universal Church.

Michael Wm. Dooley, INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana

Just read Richard Dawkins "God Delusion" and it will become obvious how irrelevant the Pope, the Archbishop of Cantebury and this debate are.

Andris Blankenburgs, Perth, Australia

"To this he called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter." 2 Thess 2:14-15
Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James, Thaddeus, Simon and Paul taught truth, and the gates of hell have never, and never will, prevail over Christ's Church.

Chuck, Yigo, GU

I, as a practicing RC, would welcome the Anglicans with open arms. However, my mother was an Episcopalian - here in the USA - and I am more than familiar with the ancient distrust of most Protestants with our faith and our Holy Father. They still see us as the seat of the Inquisitions etc. I think this will be very difficult for English Protestants to do - but we will wait and see. We must remember Newman, Manning and all the famous converts from the CofE to the Roman faith. However, do think it will be difficult because conservative RCs are forbidden any laxity toward modern ideas - gay marrige etc., divorce etc..

J. Dean, Chicago, IL. USA

It would be nice to be in the same Church with You :-)

Wiktor, Warsaw,

Sorry, this article is wrong about the Catholic Church being "flexible" on celibacy. Yes, they accept into the priesthood married converts. But, guess what? The rules are that a man must first ask permission of his wife to enter the Catholic priesthood, because once he receives Holy Orders, they may remain "married" but WITHOUT conjugal relations. You can't be in Holy Orders and have sex. Whether this is strictly followed, I can't say, but that is the doctrine.

Ann, Newport, USA

Unity in faith might inspire us to unite in the true teachings of Christ to love and care for the poor.'How can we love a God we cannot see and ingnore our bothers and sisters who are living in great poverty '

Anthony Lee, London, UK

Whether or not the Anglican church joins the Catholic church, hopefully the relationship of the larger Christian community in total will congeal in a peaceful way. Christ spoke both literally and figuratively to get a point across. It seems to me he may have also done so to widen the net of the Christian beliefs to include the many millions in protestant denominations, as well. Let's focus on how we live as Christ wanted us to live, with charity for the poor, good will, peace, and a fairly strict following of the ten commandments. Don't let the the naysayers divide the Christian faith. Catholics, Anglicans, Baptists, Mormons, Pentacostals, etc, are all capable of living a faithful, Christian life.

Joshua, Bellevue, NE, USA

I haven't heard anything about pedophile Anglican ministers... Could it be that there isn't a problem there? A reconsideration might be needed so they don't inherit the Roman Catholic problems in that regard. No word on if the Anglicans have to give up marriage for the ministry or Catholics can finally get married for the priesthood.

Rev. Scott, Rochester, UK

While I cannot agree with previous comments suggesting that the current pope is a Nazi or that the Roman Catholic Church has been guilty of atrocities and paedophile scandals any more recently than the Anglican Church, I do agree that this proposal will never work. The trend in both Catholic and Anglican congregations in my experience has been towards decentralization rather than centralization. In fact, there is de facto cooperation (and sharing of communion) at the local level in many places. On the one hand, this is a sign that unity is possible; on the other hand, it shows that the central leadership of both churches is increasingly being ignored. If Catholics are ignoring the Pope's authority, why would Anglicans subscribe to it? I am a bit shocked that the article makes no mention of the place of women priests and bishops in the proposed new world order. I can only assume that it is envisioned that the readical conservative wing of the Anglican church will break away and join Rome.

Catherine McCaw, Victoria, BC

St. Henry VIII ? Unbelievable!

Jim Lynch, New Rochelle, NY

The Roman Catholic Church has lasted nineteen hundred sixty five some odd years despite some slight variance with its constituency. The Reformation's mixed blessing, not unlike adolescence, has left the face of organized Christianity somewhat pockmarked. Maybe it's time to grow a beard and smile.

Joshua Tree, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

How many Anglicans know that the only church other than a Catholic church located within the walls of Vatican City is an Anglican church --

Jon, Dallas, TX, USA

If Catholics become the permanent majority of practicing Christians in England it will be interesting to see if Catholics ask for the return of those grand and beautiful cathedrals and churches built by their Catholic ancestors before the Protestant Reformation (like Canterbury or Westminster Abbey)-a movement that in many places tried to destroy those grand Catholic edifices raised to the glory of God.

Deacon John M. Bresnahan, Lynn, Ma.

Comments like those of Dennis and Paul just serve to fuel the media's (and the devil's) attack on Christians. If we do not stand in unity and respect we are making the attack so much easier for them.

Louise, London,

Christianity is challenged today as it has not been since the early days of the church and the persecutions--reunification may be the best way for us to meet that challenge. In the United States, the various Christian denominations, from Roman Catholic to Southern Baptist, are more and more frequently allied against anti-Christian policies and diatribes--so much so that today, there is a sort of overall Christian bloc in the U.S., far different from earlier periods of intense interdenominational conflict.

Let's hear it for reunificiation--and this is the Pope under whom to do it! As long as the Roman Catholic Church is able to recognize the value of the more Protestant, bibliclally centered, contribution.

Molly, Leesburg, VA, USA

John Baker, ponder the calamities committed by avowed atheists Lenin, Stalin, Mao, Pol Pot, Castro. What theological qualifications does Dawkins have to opine on the existence of God since, as a scientist, he only deals with that which can be empirically verified (seen, heard, smelled, touched, tasted), whereas God is pure spirit?

Geoff, NY, NY

To the previous comments , I'll repeat only what Jesus Our Lord said ,That we all may be One, as I am with the Father .You can insult each other all what you want, but this is not the idea of Christian Principles of love thy neighbor as yourself.

Hortense F-Baujin, Torrington, Ct

"Does this mean that all the Anglican members of ARCIC accept Papal Infallibility and in particular the bull Apostolicae Curae of 1896 where Leo X111 [sic] speaking Ex Cathedra " - Rev. Bernard Rumbold, Brompton Regis

Pope Leo XIII was not, in fact, speaking ex cathedra in that bull.

Kensy, Nottingham, UK

My, what will happen in Northern Ireland. Will the protestant Catholics still hate the Catholic Catholics?

Jeff Parker, Omaha, NE, USA

God the Holy Spirit certainly works in mysterious ways! As an orthodox Catholic, I would certainly welcome back the Anglicans/Episcopalians who wish to rejoin and adhere to the teachings of the Catholic Church.

And to think that all this began, not because of the reforms of Luther and Calvin, et. al., but because Henry was determined to have his own way with regards to divorce.

Dan, Jefferson City, Missouri, USA

I am a Catholic from Brazil. It is strange they are doing it now after 500 years. However it could indicate another thing like Europe is gathering forces to stop the advance of Muslim religion.

marcelo hoss, porto alegre, Brazil

The phrase 're-arranging deckchairs on the Titanic' comes to mind. Worldwide, both these traditions are in decline, while Evangelical/Pentecostal/Charismatic groups continue to grow. The face of the church is changing. Within a generation it will look quite different, and these two traditions probably will have declined.

Dr Roger Aubrey, Cardiff, UK

Presumably the Anglican bishops who are looking into reuniting with Rome will be better educated about the teachings of Catholicism than many people in the general public. Catholicism, unlike Calvinism, does not teach that one must be a Christian to be redeemed, so it is ironic that anyone could ever say that Catholic refusal to bow to religious relativism is responsible for spawning Calvinism.

As for the distorted issue of paedophile 'cover ups' within the RC Church, I wonder what people would say if they knew that the largest number of paedophilic attacks are carried out by the child's own relatives? The second largest number are carried out by teachers. The cover ups here are so numerous as to be almost unbelievable, but...where's the hue and cry?

There isn't one. It 's far more satisfying to cariacture a religious institution as perverted than it is to visit the psychiatric hospital where I work and see the sheer number of children who have suffered sexual abuse in their own family.

Mary Hosker, Houghton,

Whenever will humanity come to its senses? What if we could use the resources now wasted on squabbles, fights and wars over irrational concepts such as god and religion (organised or not), to actually improve life on earth? We might be able to save ourselves, and the planet with it.

Oh, I know, that's called Utopia. Sorry, wrong place.

Jan, Utrecht, Netherlands

I think that this is a major move that has been in the works for many years but it is only now that the re-unification of Anglicans and roman Catholics may very be a reality.

I am concerned though, that it may be a vehicle to persecute other protestent congregations who don't wish to join this one world church organization.

Michael G. McKay, Fredericton,, New Brunswick Canada

Ut unum sint!!! This is great news. It is a shame that people who teach and live the love of Christ need to be divided. In my opinion all people of good will will support the (re)union of the Anglican and Roman Catholic Churches.

Antoine, The Hague, Netherlands

This is a huge step, of course, but one that should be hailed by everyone. Every initiative that leads to unification must be supported. I don’t believe anybody expects Anglicans to accept the Pope as their leader this very moment and this is understandable. Differences and conflicts in the past were simply too many to shove them aside so easily. But, as the article states: a ministry of universal primacy, exercised by the Bishop of Rome can be the sign and focus of unity within a reunited Church.
Talks of the danger of the Inquisition and returning to the Dark Age as well as bringing Adolph Hitler in the same contest with the Catholic Church are nothing but exaggerations. I as a Catholic see no problem in unifying the two Churches, but the process certainly needs some time and good will on both sides. It will only make us stronger.

Vasa, Kakanj, BiH,

As an Episcopalian watching my church die a slow death over the politics of new doctrine, I would almost be happy to have a church primate with the power to actually enforce biblical doctrine. The world-wide Anglican communion has proven itself feckless when challenged. But on the other hand, how will Anglicans reconcile with the "infallibility" of the Roman Church which anoints non-biblical ideas as mandatory doctrine (immaculate conception, celibacy of priests, etc)?

Deborah, Wesley Chapel, FL,

As the late great Cardinal Newman said, "My Anglican Priest tells me that I can be saved in any Christian Religion; my Catholic priest tells me that I can only be saved in the catholic church. I am going to play it safe and be catholic."
Welcome to all of the Anglicans back to the church. I look forward to the largest conditional ordination in the history of the church! I hope it is at Canterbury Cathedral which we catholics have sorely missed. Saint Thomas Becket will be so pleased!

Maureen, Rathdrum, Idaho

Graham, wow, where in the bible dose it tell you what books should be in the bible. Where does it say to assemble a bible? Did it fall from the sky one day? was the bible written by God...? Nope, men inspired by God wrote the bible, men inspired by God gathered the books for the bible, and men continue to authoritativley interpret the bible so we can have unity and true teaching today, not one thousand versions of Christianity. Christ didnt mean differnt things when he said something? he meant one thing, and one thing only.... Where does the bible say: "Faith alone" or "scripture alone"? How can you say scripture is the only way if scripture doesnt even say that? Interesting try though....

Matt, Jacksonville, USA/ Florida

Graham Hastings comments about repeated prayer show an ignorance of the bible he claims to know. In the gardel of Gethsemani Jesus said the same prayer over again after once waking up the apostles and again after waking them again. The angels on Christmas sang "Glory to God in the highest... " over and over. Anyway, the Church existed before the bible and the mass existed before any of the New Twestament scriptures existed. They called it the breaking of the bread.

James Foley, Manchester, NH

I would challenge Mr. Graham to re-examine Catholic doctrine in light of Sacred Tradition. Specifically, the Rosary takes its' prayers and mysteries right from the New Testament. If Mr. Graham's position would be consistent, what does he call his biological sire? And, if the Bible is to be read literally, unless he has never commited a sin, does he have both eyes, hands, or his tongue? I know I have certainly lusted, been envious, have spoken improperly about others, and have stolen things as a child/ teen, but think it is quite preposterous that to cut off/ out these appendages should be literally interpreted. Finally, how does he propose to explain how the canon of the Bible was compiled (which, came after the Oral teaching of the Apostles)? What about the "Gospel" of Judas, Phillip, or Thomas?? I must echo Mr. Lene of Florida... After 400+ years, welcome home.

Mike Pollard, Rolling Meadows, Illinois

I already united with the Catholic Church a few years ago, and I think it is wonderful that Anglican leaders are considering doing the same! I hope they bring many Anglicans with them and that finally Christ's desire for one Church will be realized on earth. My union with Catholicism has been an amazing and joyful experience, so much so that several others have come home to Rome with me! :) Come home to Rome! The Successor of the Apostle Peter (the Pope) is opening the doors to the world to come, explore, and meet Christ in the Church which was founded by Christ Himself, not a king, not out of protest, not out of schism, not out of a hurt feelings, but the Church Jesus founded and promised that "the gates of Hell will not prevail against you."

Nick, Aqui,

Golly, Hill. Are you serious? Of course Holy Mother Church would insist that Anglicans become Catholic in order to be in communion with the Catholic Church. Are you so befuddled by relativism that you can't swallow the obvious?

There is no unity where there is hubris, and hubris is a rather English vice, isn't it?

Dave, South Bend, Indiana

This is great news!!!
The Pope is Peter. Tony Blair should not be able to create Bishops.
I, like many others, have longed to see reunion with Rome.
For centuries,Roman Catholics and Anglicans have called each other unchristian ; history has proven that we are both God's people, both Christian.
Let us join together and clean our house of Sodomites,women priestsand war mongers ready to do God's work and prepare for Christ's return.

Shaun Little, Ruspidge, Great Britain

My initial thought is that it's good news. But as I mull it over I have concerns. It's very complicated. Can conservative Anglicans come in and accept the mother Church for what it is, i.e abortion, euthanasia, transubstantiation, or will we have to give stuff up to make the transition easy?

how will the issue of married male clergy work in the future should a significant proportion of the Anglican communion come into the fold? Can the Pope bring in Anglicans and still pave the way for the vital full rapproachment with the SSPX? Will he grant a universal indult for the Latin Mass or will he forgo this to avoid alienating Anglicans?

Lots of questions.

Robert Kennedy, Glasgow, Scotland

The Catholic Church does believe in Purgatory, and it does come from the Bible. When looking over the dead Israelites, Juda Macabee noted that some of the soldiers were wearing amulets around their necks. Juda asked prayers for these soldiers because he knew wearing amulets was sinful.(All turst must be placed in God, not things) Likewise,
Catholica pray for the deceased because it is not known that they are in heaven. Every sin must be cleansed away before entering heaven. Only the perfect go the heaven. Purgatory is a help of getting us there. It is a good thing.

Frances M. Vincent, NY, NY

How sad it is to see folks who do not even understand one thing about the Catholic church pontificating on Catholicism. Bless your hearts!

Kenny, New York, New York

The only way the Anglicans and the Roman Catholics could ever re-unite is if the protestants forget what they protested about in the first place.
How are you saved - by grace or by works? Protestants (not just traditional Anglicans) say 'by grace are you saved through faith and that is the gift of God - not by works lest any man should boast.' We can do nothing to save ourselves - if the Pope believed that, he would no longer be a Roman Catholic. If the Archbishop of Canterbury believed it, the Church of England would not be in such a mess.

Shaun Hexter, London, England

Regarding the comment from Linda Rivera, New York City: Linda, Catholics know Christ is the head of the Church. It is, after all, the Church Christ founded 2000+ years ago when he was physically here. At every Mass we reflect on and are reminded (not that we need be) this is Christ's Church. When we refer to the Pope as the head of the church we mean as the successor to Peter -- appointed by Jesus to led His Church (Mathew 16:18). It is obvious to us who the head of His Church is, so not necessary to always state.

Steve, currently in Lubbock, TX USA

On second thought, has the Holy Roman Catholic Church been the 'quasi-ecumenical-political' version of 'an heir & a spare' for the past 400 years? Now that The Crown has no need for The Church of England is it more politically correct for The Crown to be associated with the authentic and original Catholic Church? The Church of England was originated and established by King Henry VIII. Now the future king has no need for the Church of England, in fact it is almost an impediment to any authenticity (modern) of The Crown. Thus, this seeming act of conciliation or reconciliation is nothing more than a convenience for The Crown & another insult to The Catholic Church. The Pope does not serve at the pleasure of the King! Heir & a Spare, King & a Spare, Princess & a Spare (mistress) but NEVER a Church & a Spare.

Donna Smith, Delaware, USA

It would certainly present both some interesting possibilities and problems but perhaps not so surprising a development. The Traditional Anglican Communion has been in talks with Rome for many years and is well along the path to Uniate status in a manner similar to the Byzantine and Ukrainian Catholic Churches.

WD Milner, Sydney, NS, Canada

I am encouraged to hear this news. As a Catholic I welcome the combination but think it is important to stay true to the conservative basis. People need a strong moral basis that is not changing with society. I think that is what is indicated here. Catholics are welcoming but communion is just that to us, a receiving of the physical presence of Jesus through the concecration of a priest under the pope. Not that we don't like other christian groups, it just is a very specific representation to us.

Brian Green, Lawrence, Kansas

Why would anyone want to renew ties with Rome at this juncture in history is beyond me. The Catholic Church's present views of gay people, not to mention other issues of sexuality, are naive at best and cruel in the eyes of many. The liberal wing of the Episcopal Church in America embraces all believers in ways Rome can't even begin to fathom.

Robert Diaz, Los Angeles, USA

It will be very interesting to see in the future if women and homosexual priests are more, or less, or disappear altogether.

Paul Medhurst, Vienna, Austria

How is it going to happen when Episcopalians in the U.S. cannot even find unity among each other because one group holds to the Bible and another wishes to be free of some of its teachings. So, when may Episcopal churches are splitting off from the Anglican Church, it doesn't make sense they will all join together around the Roman Catholic church. Maybe some of those that split off will join the RC church, since they no longer have a larger body to belong to and since conservative Episopalians are pretty close to being Catholic anyway.

Knave Dave, XXX,

To Graham: Perhaps a reading from the booklet "Where We Got the Bible" would suit your fancy. It was written by Right Rev. Henry Grey Graham, a convert to Catholicism from the Scottish rite. He'd show how you got to fall hook, line and sinker for the anti-Catholic whoppers you cite. Best part of it? It's free! Go to: http://www.geocities.com/militantis/biblecontents.html

Pax Christi, Bakersfield, CA

If anyone is interested in what the Anglican Communion actually says about that document instead of the sensationalism of this article you can visit http://www.anglicancommunion.org/acns/articles/42/50/acns4254.cfm

Katy, Minneapolis, USA

I pray this is true, and the traditionalist Anglicans return, as they would add much to enrich the Catholic Church. It would give those Catholics who want a married clergy a licit option.

The one thorny issue wouldn't be the issue of married priests, but the married bishops, something neither Rome, nor Orthodoxy accepts.

The Catholic Church has already created the Anglican Use provision for disaffected Episcopalians in the United States, using the Book of Divine Worship, are revised version of the BCP.

John Rossomando, Glenmoore, PA

the biggest issue, as it is between the orthodox and the western Catholics, is the "filioque". the nicene creed agreed upon in the fifth century, states the holy spirit proceedeth from the Father.

the "and the son", the filioque snuck in first in spain and by the 11th century, the west excomunicated the orthodox for not having it in.

but perhaps the angelican church shares this abominable heresy.

pingpng, potomac,

Thousands of Protestant ministers and pastors (all different denominations) have converted to the Catholic faith within recent years (see www.chnetwork.org). The vast majority of them did this largely for Biblical reasons! Indeed, there are many misunderstandings concerning the Catholic faith; however, any notion to dimiss Catholicism as unscriptural is either based out of ignorance or because one holds a different interpretation of the Bible (see www.catholic.com). The Protestant world, sadly, has deep disagreements even over "essential" issues. Tens of thousands of denominations are an unfortunate reflection of this disunity - clearly not something our Lord prayed for in John 17. This hopeful story appears to be a reflection of this glorious trend towards unification - that they may all be "perfectly one." Christians, we all love Jesus Christ as Lord. His death on the cross gained our salvation. It is through Him that we live, move, and have our being! Let us find ways to unite!

Jonathon , Harrisburg ,

It is disconcerting to see what bizarre beliefs some people still hold about the Catholic Church. Slaughter ? Supreme Power? The Pope being Christ on earth? Er...no.
Take a deep breath , guys, and calm down. Like Vic says - this is the way it should be.

David, Shropshire, England

Who'd have believed it even possible? Wouldn't it be great? Unity based on the reality of a shared faith, moral code and practise? Halleluia!

Steve, London, UK,

I would like to see Anglicanism return to the Church, probably as an autonomous rite, but I simply cannot see how it can happen when within Anglicanism there are so many evangelicals who reject fundamental doctrines. I continue to believe that a full reunion is impossible because of this, but that the Anglo-Catholic elements and the evangelicals will over time split apart and that it will be the former who will come to a rapprochement with Rome whilst the latter go their own way.

Martin, Hereford, England

The Whore of Babylon....

Isaiah, walland, tn, usa

I say you better reunite before Charles is King. I recommend everyone watch the classic A Man for All Seasons. It will shed some insight into how this mess got all started

Mike, Omaha, Nebraska USA

Speaking as an American Episcopalian in exile, too many in the Episcopal Church are too extreme with the Gay and Feminist issues. A large amount of brethern have left over these issues and we would come back to the providences that are in fellowship with the Bishop of Rome. This would result in the rest(liberal) of the Episcopal Church dying on the vine. The liberal wing of the Episcopal Church is a source of much grief to many.

Dr. John Fleischer, Los Angeles, USA/CA

This is splendid news. The loss of the English church was an incalculable one for the universal church, and I dare say, vice versa. The moves toward effective unity will repair at least one scandal from the history of Christianity -- that it is so divided. Rome is the natural focal point for that unity -- a unity that will be enriched by the beautiful traditions of the Anglican church, connected once again to the unbroken traditions and theology of the Catholic church (I write this in spite of all that anti-Catholic prejudice and bad spelling offered by some of our fellow commentators who are having their say here.)

Laurence, Toronto, Canada

Josh I hate ruin your belief that all religions will go back to where they started. Because if you believe that than Judaism will be the one to flourish as all monotheistic religions are on the basis of Judaism. I as a Jew do not understand Catholicism. How can they say that they believe in one g-d when they have the holy trinity of g-d, the son, and the holy spirit. This in itself is a belief of three. And don't tell me that they are all the same person, because that is just an excuse for those who don't understand that three can not be one. Catholics break several of the fundamental rules of a g-d. The ten comandments state that their is to be no g-d before me, and not to worship Idols yet when you enter a church you see the symbol of Jesus and you pray to him. Please explain to me how you are a monotheistic religion.

robert, arlington, texas

why did our fore-fathers die? they fought tooth and nail to be free from the roman church and in doing so gave us a free -thinking society. to paraphrase monty python, 'look out the inquisition's about'.

james morrell, doncaster, united kingdom

Walt from Gilroy:

The Pope does not pretend to be God. You need to get your head out of the DaVinci Code, and its absolute nonsense about the Council of Nicea, and into the real histories. You will find you have been fooled.

As Bishop Sheen used to say, there are millions of people in the world that hate the Catholic church. But there are probably only about a hundred who still hate it after they find out what it really is, and what it really teaches.

fred, New York, New York

I once read in an article a few years ago, that Rowan Williams mentioned that his Bishops should make adlima visits to the Bishop of Rome...I found that suggestion to be very interesting...if the Anglican Church reunited with Rome, that would be wonderful thing. Also, having an Anglican rite in the Catholic church would do a lot of good for the Catholic Church. It would make us more open to the universality of what it means to be Catholic, and perhaps, help the Catholic church in relations and negotiations in regards to Unity with the Orthodox Church (As I understand, Orthodox and Anglicans had a good relationship doctrinally/morally, until the recent past).

Steve, San Francisco, CA

Searching the New Testament you will not find any basis for reformation outside the church Christ founded. Reformations or restorations have occured throughout church history. As Jesus restored the apostles, he can restore the church he founded from any greater fault. We have Christ's words of assurance, one of which is that it can withstand any storm since it was built on solid rock.

Daniel Jimenez, Clovis, CA.

Jakub,
Your sentiment is exactly why Protestants resent Catholics, and a large reason why divisions exist to this day. Protestants feel that Catholics worship the Church and its tradition and dogmas before God. There is not one "True" church in God's eyes, he loves us all and we are here to follow Christ's teachings. Any divisions in Christianity exist only as a result of man's failures and differences in interpretation.

Greg, Philadelphia, PA

Patrick, from DeSoto, I would like to point out that Jesus had a great deal of respect for authority as is evident by the fact that he adhered to Mosaic Law and the prescribed religious practices and rituals therein. He even refused to denounce Caesar's authority in collecting taxes. What he was against was the abuse of authority and the lack of recognition that all authority comes from God (even that which is abused). Authority is meant to serve God's purposes. That's what Jesus preached! Regardless of whether the two churches unite, authority will remain. Even little evangelical followers acknowledge the authority of their pastor to some degree.

Matthew, Ohio, USA

Carl in Chuluota, FL does NOT speak for all Catholics, only for himself. . . Don't think for one second that there are not gay clergy in the Catholic Church. The difference is that the Catholic Church accepts the person and rejects the lifestyle. As long as a person who is gay does not act on this, he can remain in a state of grace. Many Anglicans believe this also, but others accept the gay lifestyle (not to be confused with the gay person, which the Catholic Church accepts) which has caused the rift that has polarized things within the Anglican church and led to this idea in the first place.

As a fellow Catholic, and a staunch conservative, I suggest to you that, if the thought of being part of a "church group that has liberals in it makes [you] sick" then you're not practicing Catholicism anyway. Being baptized Catholic doesn't make you Catholic. Believing what the Catholic Church teaches does. By the way, Catholicism is a religion; the ladies auxillary is a church group

Bill, West Chester, Ohio, USA

I'm going to have to differ with Jakub in Boston. If we still had the same "traditions" over the years, we'd still be slaying those who did not convert to Christianity. There is never one to be "one" religion that everyone subscribes to, but how can anyone justify that another person will not go on to heaven or the after life(depending on your view) because they don't beleive the same things or ways. I find it hard to believe that God won't let someone from deep in the heart of the jungle into heaven, simply because that person has never heard of Christianity or Jesus. Whether you believe in God, Buddah, Allah, Shira, or whatever diety you choose, everyone has their own way, and the path they think they should follow. It's not for man to decide which is right, when there can only be one God. I just wonder when people realize that no matter what label is made for a name, it's all controlled under one.....

Keith, Atlanta, USA

To Fr Peter Weatherby:
Some of us are commenting, particularly with reference to "regime change" Americans not advising us "errant souls" on how to worship, plus the fact that the whole idea threatens the basis of the English State but there seems to be a selective block in operation from this end, particularly if your post is long, or agin this idea!
Oh, by the way: any plans in the pipeline to absorb Islam or even Judaism? I take it that Hindus, Sikhs etc will simply be beyond the pale until the big stuff is sorted?

Peter Jones, Caernarfon, Wales

I suppose it matters little that Anglican and Roman Catholic doctrine are not compatible and that in order to reunite with Rome, Anglicans would have to give up the 39 Articles, married priests, any remaining pretentions to Calvinism and they would have to return to the Sacrifice of the Mass. Believe me, the Romans will insist on this and either Anglicans will give in or they will not be able to reunite. Having had a few moments to consider it while writing this, I suppose that it doesn't really matter, and most Anglicans - due to their lack of knowledge of church histroy and church doctrine - probably would not notice they were not Anglicans any more for a while, and perhaps not at all. ah, well....

Hill , Houston, TX, USA

Further unification between Christian sects will be helpful in the long term goal of finally finishing what the Crusades started.

It's like the time Kane and The Undertaker formed a team. Nobody thought it'd last forever, but they destroyed all opponents and ruled the WWE while it lasted.

Dan, Columbus, OH

Let us suppose that every Sect of Christendom united. What would that accomplish in Truth? It is supposed by many that unity is a command priority from Jesus to His disciples, right? Wrong! To be Christ's disciple one must "depart from iniquity"(John 8: 31-35)! That was what He taught as the first order of Faith! This was droped by the catholic Synoid in 431 A.D. at Ephesus.

It was called: "no sin after baptism!" What is particularly interesting about this leaked unity paper is that its all about coming back under the authority of the Pope! Whats wrong with that picture Bible students and Church historians? Don't you remember George Calixtus who, in 1260 A.D., suggested that the Church return to only what was taught through the fifth century? Do you remember why he suggested this? It was because the Church's doctrine had been greatly poluted and needed Cleansing!

Where is the cry for unity for the Lord's commands?

James Palmer, Challis, ID, USA

To say "Churches Back Plan........." I think is something of an exageration. Some of the bishops back this plan, just as some of the bishops have advocated this in the past, and it has come to naught. I can remember this being discussed at least 20 years ago. Around that time our Canadian Anglican Church discussed the possibility of union with the United Church of Canada, a church with which we probably have more in common than with the Roman Catholic Church. Again, nothing came of this. At the time an Anlican clergyman told me union with the United Church was much more likely than with the Roman Catholic Church.

In my view there may be a break-away group of Anglicans that would align with the Roman Catholics, and the remainder would remain with their church. I believe there are more liberal-minded Anglicans in this country than of the conservative group which is opposed to ordination of women, same-sex marriage, ordination of gay clergy.

John Burton, Ottawa, Canada

Why sould anyone consider us all sinners? How can anyone think that being born was a sin? There is without a doubt a Creator but beyond our comprehention. If Christ is the son of God & if we are the Children of God. what is the difference? He unquestionly was a great teacher. We should adhere to his teaching but lets use some common sense and not be led by any so called leader of faith.
All religions claim to be the true religion but we must understand each faith is only slightly different. For this slight difference the so called religious leaders have caused most of the wars and trouble in this world. I mean all religions. They are the real sinners!
This definetly includes the Catholic Church. So why should anyone want to merg with it. Consider the many miss-
deeds of many Catholic Priests! Have these problems and many more been resolved as of yet. I doubt it.

Chris Liossis, Canton, Ohio

From the Catholic point of view,(and this hasn't changed) Anglican ordination is invaild. From a sacramental point of view ,there hasn't been an archbishop of Canterbury in 500 years. Lasly, while some Anglicans consider themselfs to be Catholic, until they have valid orders and accept the pope, they are living in the land of Oz! It should be clear to all that England's attempt to be Catholic without the pope has been one big failure.

Justin, Houston, USA

Very interesting.

Marcela Leal Olmedo, Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico

To respond to Fr Peter Weatherby in the UK, there is a reason that we as "Protestants" broke away from the "Mother Church" in Rome. The fact that people no longer care about fundamentalist Protestant doctrines is because there has been a dramatic decline in knowledge of the differences between Protestants and Catholics. Today we are being told that Protestants and Catholics can all live under one roof. Not true. It is interesting to see how the Catholic Church is willing to cave in on her doctrine of celibacy in exchange for a dramatic increase in power. Isn't that the underlying fundamental reason for the Protestant Reformation? That the bureaucracy had too much power and that it's sins were separating us from Christ? The Papacy has been fighting for hundreds of years to regain the “territory” lost in the 1500s to the Protestants. This is just a continuation of that same fight.

Taylor , Marion, Montana, USA

BETRAYAL!!!

A Bible Christian from POLAND

Pavel Chojecki, Lublin, Poland

I am an Anglican. I do not believe in transubstantiation, magic, the supremacy of the Bishop of Rome (I still have a Prayer Book with the "Black Rubric"). I maintain what Cranmerstated, "altogether reasonable..." and Elizabeth I, "have no windowinto another's soul to be fundamental elements in the Anglican Church. I don't care is two men marry or if a gay lesbian is my bishop. The quality of their pastoral care and knowledge is more important.

Michael Haven, Defiance, Ohio

Praise Be to God! I think the world needs a truly united Christian front. The only why to truly unity is through one Faith, one Baptism, and one Church. If the Church is the body of Christ, then it should not be divided. Currently there are 26,000 different denominations of Christians and they can’t agree even on the basics. It’s not likely that every other Christian denomination on earth will become an Anglican, Methodist, or a Baptist, so I think that deep down we all know that we all need to reunite under the Catholic banner again. Keep in mind that there are other Rites of the Catholic Church, which allows for a lot of freedom in forms of worship, etc. but the doctrines are what will need to be agreed on.

Paul Kocan, Naperville, IL

The trickle of Anglican priests entering the Catholic Church has turned into a flood. Yes, they have to take additional studies; yes, they can keep their wives and still be Catholic priests. (this is to Johnathan)

Remember, all those Anglican churches now sitting empty were once vibrant Catholic churches. The liberal Anglican church is shrinking to the size of pea and blowing away. This, at a time in Britain of huge increases in illegitimacy, crime, drug use, suicide, and a hundred other moral issues. It is more than time to consider a return to God and traditional morality.

Jeri, boise, usa, idaho

Henry VIII will turn in his grave!

Does this mean the Pope's ready to consider women priests - or is it just a ploy to ensure that women will never regain their rightful place in religion?

Jacq, Bne, Australia

At last, reunion seems a real possibility.However, it appears it will not be a complete reunion. I doubt that the majority of Episcopalians in the US will seek this reunion. Alas.

gregory o'connor, Dayton, Ghio, USA

This sure blows up everything that I was taught at Loyola University in New Orleans during the 1950's. There was a one time there was one church. The Roman Catholic Church, however this was changed by the reformers.
Can they ever buy who we are and can we accept who they are? Jesus is due to return soon. Let's see what He says.

Larry McKinney, Ball Ground, Georgia

I remember growing up---I am now 62--when we would pray for all our Christian brothers and sisters--Are we talking miracle????

Gerald Landry, Abbeville, La.

Regarding the persistent report that Roman Catholics think they are the only Christians, I recall Richard Cardinal Cushing of Boston's receiving the "Feenyites" back into the RC church after their leader "Father" Feeney died in the 1970's when I lived in Boston. As I understand it, Feeney taught that everyone not correctly baptized as a Catholic was going to hell (including all Protestants), but Cardinal Cushing had him excommunicated for this. Cushing said that Protestants were "separated brethren," by which I suppose he meant separated by divergent views on the Pope etc., but Christians and "brethren" nonetheless, who could not be assigned to hell on that basis.

Dr. D., College Station, TX

Hmm..I ponder which religion the mear man comes from.

Ric, Concord, NC USA

I hope the Catholics prosper, and I hope the Protestants prosper. However for either to claim that they are the indisputable church of God is at best weak. Detailed investigation of the council at Nicea reveals a man-made curch out of the chaos of lost leadership, with Constantine, another earthly king, as its driving and enabling force.

As for the Pope being Christ on Earth, I believe that Christ is in His heaven, and hardly approving of any who pretend to be Him.

The second coming is near, and will likely clear up the whole mess.

Walt, Gilroy, California

it took 400 years but welcom home

Paul Lene, Clearwater, FL

The Roman Catholic church is a Religion riddled with false doctrine! Where in the bible does it say anything about Mass? Purgetory etc etc? The rosery? The bible makes coments about repedative prayer! And the Catholics go against this? It also states in THE BIBLE there is only one Father, your Father in Heaven and to call no other father..go to your local Catholic Church and they all want to be called Father gainst Gods will. Let the one True Church of God stand well away from this false teaching of the Roman Catholic Church. The pope a mear man chosen my men is not the head of the church God is!!

graham, hastings , sussex

Anglicans now, Lutherans next, and so on and so on. All the religions are going back to where they started...just like the Bible says they will!!.
Religion is from man, Redemption is from God. Man needs Redemption through Jesus, not religion from man

Josh, Holtsville, NY

Where is Henry VIII when we really need him?

Kevin Shuman, Loveland, Colorado USA

My prayer is that ALL Christians will one day unite. A divided church is not what Christ intended. Study scripture and the writings of the founding fathers. There is but one truth. Pray, study and find it. It's all there.

Lou Seneca, E. Stroudsburg, PA, USA

Herein lies the problem....non Catholics continue in their ignorance of the Catholic Church. The Church of course considers women equal, but different. There is something lacking in a persons sense of self worth if they cannot accept the wonderful and varied roles of the sexes, and accept with much happiness and freedom the valuable role each sex plays in the world, the family, and the Church.
As to the comment about superstitions, it's not even worth the time to argue the point....ignorance is bliss, and you are free to continue in it.

Kathy Beckert, Rockville Centre, New York, USA

Jon writes: "So we can all sleep happily now that the Catholic church has decided the world is in fact round!!!!"

You really need to read up on what the Galileo affair was really about. It surely has nothing to do with the world being round. One wonders what other things of which you might also have a faulty understanding.

Stu, Bartlett, TN

A reunion of Catholic and Anglican Churches will bring us one step closer to the Pope having supreme and universal power over a set of people. I shudder to think of the implications of this possibility, when we all know the history of the Catholic church when it is in a position of supreme power. How many more may have to be slaughtered in the future? I don't think Western secular power (as corrupt and flawed as it is) and freedom will stand forever against a universal and potentially oppressive church.

Landon, Maryland, USA

The opening words to the column are very interesting, "Radical proposals to reunite..." What's so radical about that. That is the way it should be, the good Lord willing. Come back home, the Church welcomes everyone!! May the Holy Spirit lead everyone back home!!

Vic, tampa, FL,

Ah, the Sunnis and Shiites of Christianity may agree on something. Aion't religion fun?

Brian, Phoenix, AZ

This would indeed save Angilicanism.

Dr. Wmith talks of letting religion die. Well, when you run your religion as a politically correct social service provider dabbling in societal politics, it will indeed die.

Dr. Smith, you will be in your grave 1,000 years and Catholicsim will still be here.

Vincent, Fairfield, CT

I look forward to this step nearer unity with Rome, but how many years is it going to take?.

geoff wright, doncaster, uk

A divided Church has very little to say to a divided world, especially Churches that are distracted from their main purpose by trying to prove that a) the Bible is literally the Word of God from cover to cover, which it isn't; b) only men can fulfil the roles of Bishops and Priests, which they can't; c) that a particular "Church" is the only true Church because they say it is, which is sheer arrogance and a denial that the Spirit works outside their particular "scaffolding";d) Religion and Science can be kept apart, which shows a distinction lack of understanding of the philosophy of science and religion.Before Churches of any denomination consider organic unity - the healthiest kind, especially when it is also free range!! - they need to look very closely indeed at their individual models of Authority and Leadership, for in an ecumenical context - a living one - they cannot remain the same. As they are, they all sit uncomfortably in the fellowship of the Trinity, as the "Body of Christ".

David Redrobe, NorthSomercotes. Louth., Lincolnshire UK.

Sounds like Brian's faith is one of convenience if he can so easily switch beliefs - great differences between Baptists and Anglicans.
I have many friends who chose to move from the Espicopal church to the Roman Catholic church - most state that they did so out of a desire to "find the true church" by returning to its roots - I have a great deal of respect for those Anglicans who see what is happening within their church and understanding that many of the changes are against the will of God.

Jon, Dallas, TX, USA

Honest historians will acknowledge there was no such thing as a "Dark Ages" in Europe. That's no more than deceptive secularist propaganda. In fact, the 13th Century was the greatest of centuries for the development of European civilization.

Dave , El Paso county, Colorado

As a Roman rite Catholic I would welcome a union between our two Churches and a restoration of apostolic succession within the Anglican community. Since the Anglican rite allows priests to be married (as do a few other Catholic rites), I could see some real benefit to both Churches. Being in communion with Rome does not mean that Churches give up their identity in toto. The Catholic Church (with its seat in Rome) is not strictly the Roman rite. To my brothers and sisters in the Anglican Rite, hurry home... we miss you!

Ted, Orlando, FL, USA

I hope it happens!

D. Kane, Savannah, GA, USA

This should be in the business section. The fellow that started the whole thing had little more than a robe and sandals, taught love and forgiveness, and had little respect for organized anything. His main reason for entering temples was to throw out businessmen and hypocrites, and to bring the real message to those who had the wrong idea.

patrick, DeSoto, usa

As Laurence (Birmingham) says the divisions between the Anglican and Catholic Churches involve more than just the role of the Papacy - doctrinal questions of transubstantiation for example are as consideraed by many to be as relevant today as in the 16th Century - would Anglicans be willing to accept the 'real presence of Christ'? - would Catholics be ready to abandon this belief? For many the answer is no.

Edd, England,

Despite the centuries of division, this would be the ultimate reunion. Lets hope this happens with God's guidance and love.

R.H., Philaelphia, PA

I concur with Laurence from Birmingham. Any unity that is based on anything other than Truth is, by definition, a false unity based solely on 'towing the party line'. The Judeo-Christian scriptures exhort us to 'maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace'. That unity will, by definition, be based on Truth and Love and will be radically different from any 'unity' based on 'peace at any cost' and/or 'towing the party line'.

Simonline, Preston, UK

I should be delighted were the Roman Catholic church to abandon all those heresies that protestants have reacted against, but I think it unlikely. Schism is once again inevitable. Perhaps we should put an end to denominations. We can be sure that God only recognises one Church and that members of many denominations belong to it; but not all members of every denomination.

Terry Hamblin, Bournemouth, UK

The Catholic Church was, is and will be the one found by Jesus Christ and only this church still has the same traditions as 2000 years ago.
By the way, isn’t it strange how other churches, such as Church of England, are trying to come “back to Rome”. We can see that man-making things cannot last forever.

Jakub, Boston,

Rev, Rumbold and Others: Any agreement to reunite with the Roman Catholic Church would surely include proceedures to ordain - in the Apostolic line - all willing Anglican Clergy. Those who cannot accept this will probably remain with others of like mind in an Anglican body separated from Rome. One of the great benefits of unity with the Bishop of Rome, the Pope, is that the different shades of theological thought will disappear behind the shadow of the great rock of Peter that God firmly established for His beloved Church. Please, within your separated community pray that we are reunited peacefully and completely.

Guy, Columbus, Ne

The essential commandment is: Love God, and one another. The central issue is: Does God want His family to be a fractured community, or one people? If we raise the sins of each other as barriers to union, we are both correct, for no one is worthy, but we ignore His central role in salvation. Rome is a place, as is Canterbury. Let us pray together. Let us talk, without fear, hate, or anger. Let us try to do it His way. I ask this in the Name of Jesus Christ.

R. L. Hails Sr., Olney, MD USA

The introduction is an exagerration. A few bishops wanting to shift churches is not a true reuniting.

I thought for a moment that it was either a hoax, or that the Anglican church would disappear. When I read on, I found out it wasn't really newsworthy at all.

However, events do point to the death of the Anglican church. Along with the eventual adoption of the Euro, the decreasing knowledge of their own history amoung British youngsters, and other trends... British nationhood, or what's left of it, is under threat.

Vasco de Sousa, Aberystwyth, Wales

Being an Anglican Papist I look forward to the day when the Anglican Church at last goes home to Rome.

Neb, Weston-super-Mare, UK

As the daughter of a fallen away Catholic, I railed against organized religion in my youth. I am now an "orthodox" Anglican whose heart has secretly yearned for the mother Church.
I praise the Lord for this developement.

elaine, Poway, CA

Sounds like politics to me. How can a priest be gay if he is to be celibate.Before allowing someone to become a leader of a group of people, should he not conform to what is being taught by the church and the pope. I am in my fifties and have been a lifelong Catholic and the thought of me belonging to a church group that has liberals in it makes me sick.

carl, chuluota, florida, united states

The Anglicans under a German!!?? Britain appears to be getting truly integrated into Europe at last. What next? The Euro maybe ...

alan barley, Cologne,

Chris, London, UK,
True Christianity has no sects. The first Christians opposed them and warned of there destructive force. The Bible clearly instructs to stay away from them. Also you mentioned ‘political divisiveness,’ the early Christians shunned the politics of this world. There total loyalty was in God’s Kingdom. If you want to find Christians, find those who don’t get involved with politics and are loyal supporters of the Kingdom.

Jack, Boston, MA

This is to be welcome only if these upstart Anglicans are willing to at long last come to their senses and recognizes the preeminence of His Holiness. Thank goodness this shameful experiment in moral relativism called Protestantism is coming to its rightful end.

Will, Shrewsbury,

Whoever leaked this had malicious intent. The breaking of this story at this moment is reminiscent of an "October Surprise" in a US Presidential campaign.

Watch now: the liberals will use the threat of Rome to try to fracture the conservative coalition, and then appear to offer "concessions" in a last-ditch effort to prevent the vote going against them.

Connie Marshner, Front Royal, USA / Virginia

That would be wonderful. The relationship could be similar to that of the Uniate Church in eastern europe, especially in the Ukraine which recognizes the pope but allows its priests to marry, each can take communion from the other's services and locally have good relationships with the other.

Bill, Portola Valley, CA

I feel the prayer of Christ "That they maybe one" is being answered. In addition, The Anglicans will bring back litergy that some of our flock has tried to leave behind. I also think it is interesting that they are faced with two choices. One to go extreme abandoment of the teaching of Christ or two to reconcile with the Church established by Christ. Something we all do in our personal conversion story. Lets all pray for unity and Glory of Christ through his church.

Mark, Shelby, USA, MT

I had to check my calendar to be sure this was not April Fools. While I am inspired with the idea of unity, I hope unity does not consist of Rome taking advantage of a rift among Anglicans to pull a large part of the more conservative communion over to Rome in the name of unity. Unity has to be true unity.

Benedict of Moscow should realize that there are 39, not 49 articles, and that Roman rejection of Anglican orders has been at questioned by no less than Cardinal LeVada. LeVada would not speak without tacit approval of Benedict of Rome.

Christian Rideout, Alameda, CA

Remember that the original Anglican schism was many years after Luther's protest against abuses in the Catholic Church and was ostensibly about a king wanting to get a divorce. It's the reason divorce has practically become a sacrament in many non-Catholic churches, and why the Roman Catholic church finally had to accept divorce as a fact of life. Anglicans are not Protestants. They're closer to Catholics, but I suspect years of history will prevent the merger of the two.

Stan, Naples, Fl, USA

Neither the Anglicans nor the Catholics really follow Jesus. Jesus was an apocalyptic prophet and the only ones who really followed him were the Jewish Christians under James his brother in Jerusalem. All other Christians have invented their own Jesus.

norman ravitch, savannah, ga USA

The Anglican/Church of England is set to disappear in the next 50 years ( look at the demographic projections)
I have already moved to the Catholic Church. My only regret? -- that I didn't move sooner.
The Anglican -vote- to- validate- your- favourite- trendy sin will result long term in the churches destruction.
It is happening now

John Lindsay, Point Roberts WA, USA

Before the Last Supper that Christ shared with his Apostles, Christ prayed :Father make us One, so that the world would know that it is You who sent Me to earth and that by our unity the world will know that we are followers of God. It is the unity of Christians that shows the Grace of God bestowed upon mankind though the messages and the life, death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the Redeemer. There is no need for division among followers of Christ. ( I never understood King Henry the VIII's interpretation(s) of Bible teaching compared to Papal authority.)

Donna Smith, Delaware, USA

Though honesty on the part of the Anglican Church may inspire her to the Scriptural plan for the glory of unity with the pope, still her humility for taking this step in grace would be so greatly admired! For our home, we praise God should He allow such union, and laud the courage of Anglicans everywhere.

Angela Amodeo, St Petersburg, USA, Fl

After seeing so many Lutherans in the US move back to the Catholic Church, I can't say that I'm surprised that this should be occurring, it seems like the inevitable end of the Oxford Movement and a solution to the doctrinal issues of authority the Anglican Church has been dealing with. In any event it's too early to be making decisions on this matter, I'll be interested in what the response from the Holy See is.
I would also caution E Sloan on over-emphasizing the use of individuality in Christianity. While Bible study is an necessary step toward piety, communion with God and His creation is just as, if not more, important. Jesus need not have had a pastoral ministry if the written word was sufficient.

Stephen, Boston, MA, USA

The question is not if the Roman Catholic Church will have the Anglicans back-- almost universally, the answer is "Yes"! The question is will the Anglicans come back. Surely, there is still an anti-Catholic sentiment within the various strains of Protestantism. I have never understood from where this derives, since, historically, religious oppression in Europe and elsewhere as been oppression OF Catholics rather than BY Catholics (US, UK, N. Ir, etc.) As for the Queen, I am sure God will save her no matter where she worships Him-- and perhaps she an her successors will enjoy the Title "Defender of the Faith" (Which, ironically, was bestowed originally by the Pope on Henry VIII for promulgating a document written by St. Thomas Moore defending the Church against the charges of Luther) in that Title's original and full sense for the first time in centuries!

Chris P., Minneapolis, MN, USA

There is a lot of anti-catholic bias in many of the comments I've read. Seemingly the wars of religion that confronted catholics & protestants for over 200 years in the continent are from time to time revisited in England; religious identity as part of national identity are still a dividing issue in some countries. This all seems to me more of a distraction rather than a serious affair. When the building cracks and shakes both churches prefer to escape forwards rather than seizing the bull by the horns. As a disaffected catholic I would rather see the RCC ask herself why churches have emptied, why catholic semminars wane & why people resent their interference in public affairs. Alas, the Pope in his infallibility has already put the blame on Laicism & Rationalism. So, having solved that, why not absorb the CofE???

Javier, Madrid, Spain

I believe that this is an answer to the prayers of many - both in the Anglican and Roman Catholic church. There has never been a time when unity in christendom, especially in England is more required to witness to a secular nation in which children shoot each other in the streets.

Desmond Persaud, Wimbledon, London, UK

The head of the church is not a man! The head of the church is Jesus Christ! Colossians 1:18 "He is also head of the body, the church." Jesus is our leader, NOT the pope!

Linda Rivera, New York City, USA

I think it would be fantastic if communion between the Catholic Church and the Anglican Church was restored.

As a Catholic, I've attended several Anglican use liturgies, and I'd much rather go to a High Anglican Mass than a Novus Ordo Catholic Mass.

Steve, Morristown, New Jersey

Fascinating that there are so few comments from England! Probably because so few here understand, still less care about the fundamentalist protestant objections made to catholicism, and there is very little need for us catholics to give a response to them - as our North American brothers and sisters seem to need to.
However, it is hard to see how the catholic church could possibly unite with a body that is not united withiin itself. If anglicanism does split, then some unity might be possible.

Fr Peter Weatherby, Stoke-on-Trent, UK

I pray for my brothers and sisters in the Anglican Church. I pray that the leaders of both of our Churches will be inspired by the Holy Spirit to bring us to unity.

Mike S., Moken, IL

Davinia is wrong. Catholics welcome all who are baptised in "the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy
Spirit" just as Jesus prescribes. Learn the facts before you criticize and don't just assume that what you've been told is correct. That goes for you Catholics as well.

Stephanie, cincinnati, Ohio, USA

Please see Chapter Five of Matthew. The nets were breaking until the other Apostles came to help Peter. Many souls are lost because the Churches are not united.

Bobby Wickham, Austin, TX

To Davinia from Montreal: It is quite simple really, our actions have meanings, and are not just empty ritual. By receiving Communion, we make a public oath that we believe all the Catholic Church teaches and believes, as taught in Holy Scripture and the Sacred Traditions of the Apostles. If you do not believe that, we nevertheless welcome you and invite you to pray with us, but ask that you do not perjure yourself by taking communion, professing that you believe as we do, when you really do not. Being in communion is more than just showing accomodation to one another and "making nice".

Joe, Houston, Texas

When Elizabeth II becomes popess, I'll belive this stuff.

gevan, Long Branch, NJ, USA

It would be great if we could see the thread. However, even with a small sample, I can state with certainty that English, Scottish and foreign atheists awa foreign Muslim--well, one anyway-- are overwhelmingly *against* any union between the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of England (who also considers itself Catholic.) Also opposed are Anglicans in the US, Canada, Aus & NZ although JH Snell in Tulsa, Oklahoma must surely be one of the few Americans who calls his church "Anglican" ...It's "episcopalian" in the US of A.

Mary Shelley, London, England

Someone said, "However, before going down the road to "unity" with Rome the fact that Catholics only welcome those baptised as Catholics to take communion at their Eucahrist. What does that say to all other Christians?"

FYI: The Catholic Church actually accepts any Christiain Trinitarian baptism as valid.

Kim, Motown, Michigan

As a seventy-year old female U.K. university graduate who became a U.S. citizen and was an Episcopalian until I became Catholic in my fifties, I'm accustomed to examining issues from several angles. To me, the distinction is that Catholic teaching includes input from theologians from every contemporary culture and coheres with the thinking of earlier Catholic theologians whereas other denominations, while sharing many of the most important distinctively Christian insights, are influenced much more by the mores of the secular culture of a given time and place.

Eva Arnott, Arlington, Mass. U.S.A.

I doubt that the Episcopal Church in the US would go along with this, unless the Roman Catholic Church radically changed its attitudes towards married priests, women priests, abortion, and homosexuality, all issues favoured by the liberal wing of the Episcopal Church. My own distrust of the Episcopal Church has led me to investigate becoming a Catholic, precisely due to the liberal wing of my church. If the Catholic Church bent on - especially - abortion and homosexuality, then all we would have is an Episcopalian retread. Maybe the Episcopal Church and its liberal counterpart in Canada simply need to go their own ways.

David, Groton, US

Sadly neither church demonstrates that it is truly following Christ's teaching. The form that the early church took was decided by men, who as always, had their own vested interest in the way things should be. Even the content of the New Testament was decided by vote rather than by asking what Christ intended. The church leaders (Catholic and Anglican) need to pray for forgiveness for the way in which man has deviated from Christ's path in building his church and put right the many inconsistencies, untruths, and injustices which have over the centuries been carried out in the name of God. To follow Christ we need to love God as the only God, and love our neighbour as ourself - until the churches agree on this as the essence of Christ's teaching they will continue on their path to nowhere.

Paul Dunn, Christchurch, Dorset

I knew that it was only a matter of time before someone brought up the recent sex related issue of the Catholic Church. . . How ignorant! The issues were the result of individual sinners. We are all sinners, and you may wish to note that when Jesus established his church, he did so by choosing common sinners to do his work instead of the holy men of Mosaic Law. Jesus even calls Peter Satan in scripture.
Yes, there were issues with how certain bishops handled (or didn't handle the situation) but let's not confuse administrative functions with catechism and doctrine. All faiths have sinners; even Anglicans.
"Judge not, lest ye be judged." Doesn't Jesus caution against criticizing the splinter in one's neighbor's eye while ignoring the wooden plank in one's own?
This debate is about beliefs and teachings of the whole, not about sins and indiscretions of a few. I'm Catholic because of faith, not because of administrative structures. People come and go; faith and truth remain.

Scott, cincinnati, Ohio, USA

The question I have is how exactly are they going to deal with the validity of Anglican Holy Orders exactly? The Catholic Church does not accept them as being valid. Are they going to have to reordain/consecrate all of the Anglican priests and bishops if the Anglicans do return? That seems to be the only answer at this point.

Jonathan, Chapel Hill, NC, USA

Liberal Anglicanism is the only thing keeping this country (UK) form falling quite totally into the dark (and quite anti-universal) strong hold of more fundamentalist beliefs (such as those espoused by the pope et al.). A person cannot seriously consider the pope and his religion to be a moral one, the propagation of AIDS being one of many examples of this immorality. I am quite completely anti-religion, for such reasons demonstrated wonderfully in America and the Middle East presently, but I am also a realist and recognise that people need it. Thus, we all must make a choice, and the inherently sexist, homophobic and ethically backward Catholic Church cannot be the correct one.

Michael J. Burgess, Carlisle, England, UK

Christianity appears to have two dimensions at this time in history - those who adhere to the New and Old Testament and those who don't. To me, the classification of liberal and conservative comprise these groups. It doesn't take much intelligence to identify with either group. One simple defining issue is homosexuality. If you are for it you are liberal and, if you are against it y you are conservative or, in
other words, you follow the Old and New Testament on this issue. Christians and so called Christians will have to line up on one side or the other. Take your choice. You cannot sit on the fence forever.

George Kadlec, L'Anse, Michigan

I have been a contented Anglican all my life, and so have very many of my friends - that is to say, we are sure that the church we belong to is a true and faithful part of Christ's universal church, however it may appear to outsiders. The issues that affect a minority have no bearing on the life and worship of the ordinary man in the pew - if we are drawn to think about the present noisy quarrels, so enjoyed by the secular press, we may conclude that we are under attack (again) by the forces of the Devil, and that we shall probably come out of it (again) in good shape,
How can certain bishops think about giving away our dear Church of England, which we wish very strongly to remain independent and free of all foreign jurisdiction, to be a part of the Church of Rome? The C of E is not a strongly unified body of believers, but a loosely-knit Christian community, that contains as many protestant as catholic members. How many of those members will know themselves betrayed?

Priscus, Harrow , Middlesex., UK

It is incorrect to state that Catholics only welcome "those baptised as Catholics" to take communion. There are many individuals who take communion in the Catholic church that were baptized in other faiths. As long as the Triune formula is used for baptism it is a valid baptism, according to the Catholic church. Of course, receiving communion while not being a Catholic is prohibited. This makes sense since to take communion in the Catholic church implies you believe in the tenets of the church. In order to do this, a non-Catholic would require instruction in the faith.

victor, spokane, washington

This unification is wonderful news.
A christian is a christian - there are no two ways about it.
It will miraculously strengthen christianity in this country by giving us all strong leadership.
I, for one, will return to the pews (after an absence of 45 years). I'm sure this move will result in England becoming a christian nation again.

Dr Patrick J. Salt, Walsall, UK

Though many we are one Body in Christ. Bigotry is not of God. Anglicans, and Roman Catholics share a belief and love of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The time has come to settle the family argument! We are One Body in Christ! God Bless our beloved Pope Benedict XVI a sign of unity in Christ.

Prasie be Jesus Christ now and forever.

Theo, Columbus, USA

I find it very difficult to see how full unity is possible when protestants reject the teaching of the Church on the nature of grace and the nature and number of the Church's Sacraments. In addition, we Catholics reject Anglican orders - they are not valid. To be frank, to a Catholic, so-called Anglican 'bishops' and 'priests' are simply (no doubt well-meaning) laymen in clerical gear. It would be a travesty for there to be a spurious 'union' when the 49 Articles still form the basis for the Anglican ecclesial community, a lack of shared theology - fundamentally on the nature of the Church itself - and many other fundamental differences on ethical and moral issues. Nevertheless, all is possible with the Good Lord and I pray that England may return to the fullness of faith, the "faith of her fathers", which is to be found only within the Catholic Church. He may move in mysterious ways - but He moves.

Benedict Carter, Moscow, Russia

Paul of Northwood ought to realise that an "apostolic" church is not one necessarily founded by an apostle but one that follows apostolic teaching. One principle of apostolic teaching is that Christians ought not to criticise other Christans for following their consciences. And can Paul tell us which apostle taught that Jesus Christ would leave a "Vicar" on earth to rule the church? And which apostle taught the doctrine of papal infallibility, or the immaculate conception or about the need for a celibate priesthood?

Cliff Pooley, Cheltenham,

AS a Roman Catholic I welcome any movement toward unity so long as compromise of the Gospel is not the price to be paid. Who could find fault with acts to conform with the prayer of Jesus;"That they may be one Father as you and I are one." I disagree with Laurence that "how we relate to God is poles apart." and the divison is not only about the primacy of the Pope. Joint declarations of agreement between Catholics and Lutherans on salvation by faith alone etc. have already been achieved. Many things in that case seemed insoluable but with scholarship, mutual respect and the work of the Holy Spirit it happened that their long coming together overcame the difficulties without compromise of either sides understanding of truth.

William Hopkins, Medford, NJ

At local level there is, as in this part of Bristol( Christians Together in the Westbury Area) a good deal of cooperation,(Lenten groups etc) and worship together every quarter, which helps us all to understand oneanother. The difficulaty comes with pontifical decrees on abortion, homosexuality,fostering etc. by which some of us in the Anglican church would not want to be bound. I don't think that even the pointless wranglings of the C of E on matters of sex etc.would go away -sadly.

Richard Winn, Bristol, UK

So proposals to reunite Anglicans with the Roman Catholic Church are in the pipeline - this is to be welcomed- uniformity in central belief and leadership under the pontiff. In a world apparently lacking in moral certainty and spiritual leadership who better to lead than the pope. The deconstruction of christianity in so many societies by secularist agendas needs a unified and cohesive rebuff and if communion is possible between the two traditions then this should occur under the papacy of Rome and a church by definition 'universal'.

iain wood, bolton, lancs

This American Roman Catholic would warmly welcome Anglicans back into full communion with the Magisterium. Regardless of the outcome of the discussions between R.C.'s and Anglicans, I wish our Christian brethern all the best.

Dave, Stafford, Va./USA

While precedent on this is not good, I cannot imagine the current pope would welcome an "anglican rite" church as a block into the Roman Catholic Church. One does not become a Catholic because of what one does NOT believe in (homosexuality - women clergy - abortion - contraception etc) but because of what one does believe in. Those who tend to be closest to the Roman position on these issues are generally those who tend to be the furthest from what ARE Catholic core teachings (Sacraments - Mary - the Sacrifice of the Mass - indeed the infallibility of the Pope himself). Do you think that the pope would welcome a block of Christians whose commitment to these core issues would be shaky at best? A community that has a tradition of independence in scriptural interpretation, governance and episcopal appointment - and whose natural tendency when reunited with Rome will be to emphasize those distinct charateristics? Don't bet on it.

Don, New York City, US

This isn't news at all. The idea of anglican bishops participating in the quinquennial 'ad limina' visit to the pope and discasteries of the Holy See has been under review for at last four years.

Jenny Poppersill, Cambridge,

If this does happen, what role will the monarchy play within the framework of this "new" Church? since the king/queen is the head of the Church of England.

Mack Armstrong, Napoleon, Ohio, USA

Having read the comments so far, I now understand from where Richard Dawkins gets his ammunition, I am not an atheist, but the sort of views expressed would turn me in that directions, if I didn't beleive that there is a reasonable brand of Christianity somewhere. I can't help thinking that Christ woudl not have recognised many of his so-called followers.

John Mullen, Peterborough, Cambs

For those who do not believe in organized religion please read the Confessions of Saint Augustine. And those who are christian who don't believ in a united religion on one "Rock" please note that Jesus never taught that their would three churches.. he preached about the one church in which the powers of hell would not prevail. The last thing is that this unity is a beautiful example of grace at work.. I'm very proud of such brave efforts.

mary, Vienna, Austria

What a magnificent day it would be for England to reclaim her heritage as one of the great Catholic nations! Let's not forget that many great Catholic thinkers, heroes, and writers of the past were British. Names like Beckett, More, and Campion come to mind. And more recently, we've had Newman, Chesterton, and Tolkien!

Peter, Washington, DC, USA

Here we go,back to the 16th century.Why cant they leave well alone? There has been enough religious strife in
Ulster now it can come to the mainland

Colin, Burlington, Canada

Why would Anglicans want to unite with Rome? Many of the beliefs and customs of the Roman Catholic Church are unbiblical.
Much better that Anglicans rediscover Jesus for themselves as individuals, read the Word of God and rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. Then they will discover what the Christian life should be like.

E Sloan, Romford, UK

Christ did not establish multiple churches, He established One Church and made Peter, the rock, the head of the Church. As humans wilth a fallen nature, we do not always want to follow Christ. We want it our way, like little children, but God knows what is best for his beloved creatures. That is why He established a single Church to bring people to him. Everything else was established to meet what we think we want not God's. Remember that Christ guaranteed that His Church would last until the end of time so it is not possible for its teachings to fail only people representing the Church fail. Its the teachings that are important.

Ryan, Minneapolis, MN

This is an extremely hopeful sign that shows that we are all truly brothers and sisters in Christ. If we are able to bridge ages old divisions and bring new vision into each other's beliefs then we will become a more dynamic and accepting people in Christ.

Graham Brown, Vinton, VA USA

Really, who should care about some group of MEN. They mean very little in the salvation of the world. Christ is all, so do whatever, then meet Christ and say look at all I did. Hmmmm, what is Christ's answer going to be? Do I know you, or not.

Ron , Lee,

I'm not sure what people actually think this means. Going to church doesn't make you any more a Christian than going to McDonalds makes you a big-mac.

Jesus is the only Head of the church and the only mediator between man and God the Father.

The Angelican church is mostly from Great Britian, perhaps yet another level to bind before making the European Union truly unite.

We know prophetically that the Old Roman Empire will revive in what is now being called the Community of Europe, and that there will be ten specific "Kings" leaders who will be at the core of the union.

Good luck with that.

Patrick Boren, Van Alstyne, Texas

I agree with James from Milwaukee, The Catholic Church is rotten from top to bottom, execept for a few good priest they run it like a corporation. I cannot see any way I would raise my children in the Roman Catholic Church at this time let alone want my Anglican Church to accept Papal authority, I would be out in a second.

J. H SNELL, TULSA, USA

I assume that individuals (laity or clergy) belonging to Anglican or Catholic or other churches are generally free to quit when they are unhappy with any aspect of their church, and to join another. But clerical leaders may not retain their positions and powers when they make such a change. I suspect that dissident Anglican leaders working for schism, wish to have their cake and eat it too.

Ric Carter, Jackson, California, USA

When one examines the 'Reformation' in England, one sees that the CofE is bult on shaky ground--I hope to see unity in my lifetime. The Reformation was unecessary and in the words of Belloc, "didn't reform anything."

Phii, Connecicut, USA

Shoot, the folks in my church can't even get along with eachother, how are they ever going to get along with the rest of the world.

Louie, South Carolina, USA

As an Anglican I find it appalling that our primates would not receive communion together - that is not how to live Christ's message of love and forgiveness.
However, before going down the road to "unity" with Rome the fact that Catholics only welcome those baptised as Catholics to take communion at their Eucahrist. What does that say to all other Christians?

Davinia, Montreal, Canada

Ah, the ignorance of the Catholic faith is making itself manifest once again. Bishop Sheen was correct in saying that you could not find a hundred people who hate the Catholic Church, but you can find uncounted millions who hate what they mistakenly believe the Church to be. A little theology - if you exclude sacred tradition and admit the doctrine of scripture alone, please show us in scripture where that is written; on the other hand, 2Thess 2:15 says " "So then, brethren, stand firm and hold the TEACHINGS that you have LEARNED, WHETHER BY WORD OR BY LETTER OF OURS." The Catholic Church teaches that Sacred Tradition includes both oral (teachings of Christ and Apostles) and Scripture (those teaching written down). They do not contradict, but even admitting if they did, Scripture would be controlling, as it is written and considered more authoritative in event of a dispute.

Rocco, Washington, DC

Des
The pope is not Christ on earth. He is Christ's representative on earth. Quite different than Christ on earth. There was only one Christ and he lives within us in the Holy Eucharist. To our Anglican brothers who wish to return to the fullness of the faith, welcome home. Those who chose not to, the Catholic Church has an obligation to help get you to heavan regardless of your faith.

JC, Minnetonka, USA

I would invite all to unite under the teachings of Christ...not the teachings of man. The Catholic church, though filled with many lovely, God fearing people, is built not on the teachings of Christ, or Peter for that matter...but largely upon the traditions of men. I for one don't need a pope to tell me what the Bible says. Jesus forgives my sins...not a human priest...Jesus said to call no man father but your father in heaven! The Catholic church claims it's ecclesiastical authority is found in it's power to change the Lords Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday...I don't think so! Yes, there needs to be unity among Christs followers. We have done much harm to the cause of Christ's Kingdom by all our bickering over the years, but we're still told to worship Him in spirit and in TRUTH! Read your Bibles, stand for truth. Jesus is coming again soon.

Ron, Paw Paw, Michigan

I fail to understand how Rome can be described as the 'mother church'. There is only one church, the church of Christ. What counts in being in that church, and Christ said that one did not need to be a member of any organization to be in that church: one only needed to believe, which Paul the apostle also affirmed in his letter to the Romans. Without belief there is no connection between Christ and either Anglicans or Catholics, and I don't see much evidence of belief in either organization as the apostle Paul demands that all homosexuals and adulterers be excommunicated from the church of Christ, which neither Anglicans nor Catholics practice.

Charles Byrnell, Fleet, UK

Paul from North Woods, the catholic church was created by Men. After Rome's official state religion was changed to Christianity all the different sects got together and chose which gospels to use.

Hence the reason for the black sea scrolls and other gnostic gospels being hidden.

Fred, London,

If they hurry they can sign the agreement on October 16 the day Bishops Ridley and Latimer were burned at the stake in 1555 because they refused to worship the papal mass. History soon repeats itself and we would all do well to understand how there came to be seperate churches in the first place. Unity is good but not at the price of truth. "Buy the truth and sell it not." The church of Rome may have toned down its rhetoric and no longer burns "heretics" but it still holds the same un-biblical view of the supremacy of the Pope and many other errors. Bishop Ryle seen this all coming and warned against it at the turn of the century in his book "Light form Old Times". He seen the Anglacan church starting down this road and had the foresight to see where it ended.
If God only exists in our minds then our minds can determine how we should worship him but if He is the real creator of the universe we do well to obey Him letter for letter as He has declared in His Word rather than look to church or creed.

Fred DeVries, Kalamazoo, MI

It's about time. The Anglican Schism was a disaster for England, and a disgrace to its people for abandoning the Faith. Of course, each and every Anglican priest would have to be re-ordained if they were to join the Catholic Church, as Anglican Orders have been deemed invalid by Pope Leo XIII in his Apostolic Letter of September 18, 1896. The Pope declared ordinations according to the Rite in the Anglican Ordinal null and void and closed the question of validity, according to Catholic doctrine that there are three essential conditions needed for the valid conferral of a Sacrament: proper matter, proper form, and proper intention. If the Anglicans are truly considering re-uniting with Rome, they will have to understand that means acceptance of ALL Papal edicts, Bulls, and decisions, including those regarding its own validity. We will see whether Anglicanism has the intestinal fortitude to abandon its heresies, and whether the Catholic Church has the strength to accomplish this proposed re-unification without sacrificing Her own doctrines.

Sam, Plantation, Florida/USA

I don't think that uniting the two churches will work. There are fundamental differences in belief which will never be overcome. The scripture I believe in teaches me that Christ paid the price for my sin by His death on the cross and that if I confess my sin, God will forgive me. The Catholic Church teaches that you make your confession to a priest who then gives you pennance to carry out, to make atonement for that sin. The other area I belive that could never be overcome is the status of the Virgin Mary. I cannot see anywhere in scripture( Unless I am looking in the wrong places) to support the catholic position of being Queen of Heaven and someone who will intercede for me before the throne of God my father. Mary was highly favoured by God and was indeed the person to whom God gave the privilege of bringing His only son into the world. Mary is in Heaven but I don't think she occupies special position. I may be wrong, if I am no doubt someone will quickly tell me.

Christopher J Hicken, Milton Keynes, UK

Actually Jim Haughey the Church of England was created by Edward VI and Elizabeth I. Henry VIII lived and died a catholic, despite his break with Rome. The Cof E's teaching is the Bible and nothing but the Bible, whereas the Roman Catholic church teaches the Bible and tradition, even if tradition contradicts the Bible. I and many other Bible-believing Christians would have to leave the CofE if this merger went ahead.

margaret robinson, london, uk

It would indeed be a wondrous miracle of grace if these two churches could reunite. Almost age 80, I ardently hope to see the arrival of that day.

Deacon Henry Garon, New Orleans, LA USA

The Catholic Church cannot "change" he teachings on matters of faith and morals, the Church is infallible. If some members of the Anglican Communion and willing to submit to Church authority then their reunion with the Catholic Church is possible. There can and will be no reunion with a church that teaches other than what the Catholic Church calls infallible

Mark Higgins, University of Warwick, Coventry

Hello

I would love to see this "schism" healed and would welcome the Anglicans into our Church under Benedict XVI.

They are our brothers and we need each other.

Joseph J. Wagner, Sarasota, Florida, USA

I'd just like to point out the general view, that Anglican congregations are dwindling away to practically nothing, is not, in all cases, true. I attend Holy Trinity, Bromton, an Anglican church in Knightsbridge, where congregations have grown to such an extent that there are now five services every Sunday to accomodate the hundreds of people who attend. Its evangelical message clearly remains relevant in the modern world. It is the congregations in the more liberal churches that are dwindling, in the churches where biblical truth takes second place to political correctness and tradition. Surely this tells us something about what is needed in today's church. Not a return to Rome and its superstitions but a renewal of conviction, faith and relationship with Jesus Christ.

Philippa Murray, London, UK

Does it matter?

Both churches are losing their relevence, with most people choosing to excercise their christianity in their own way at home rather than conforming to the endless doctrine and dogma that the organisations put forward. To survive in the modern world Religion needs to go back to its roots in the small groups and homes of its members rather than the power base and ivory towers of the Vatican. How can any religious organisation expect to be taken seriously when it refuses to accept women as equals? There are two many clashes between modern life and the teachings of a church that is stuck in the middle ages. After all they have only just issued a public apology to Galileao 400 years after his death. So we can all sleep happily now that the Catholic church has decided the world is in fact round!!!!

Jon, Birmingham,

James, I believe you've read the DaVinci Code one too many times.

John, Athens, GA

May I point out that the Catholic Church does not live by the Bible. They firmly believe that Jesus came to build a Church, of which he made Peter the head. This has thus been passed down through generations. The Bible is merely a record of everything that happened, and the Catholic Churches are well aware that the documents contained in the Bible are written by men and not God.
The Catholic Church does move forward, just look at it's evolution as compared to the Eastern Orthodox Churches, who denounced the authority of the figure of the Pope. I agree with Jim. There have been many signs that areas of the Anglican Church are realising what Catholics have been saying for years. It only makes sense to unite under the guidance of the Pope.

David Free, Hull, UK

Good news indeed! The Holy Spirit moves in marvelous ways, wouldn't you say??
Cheers from Canada.

Tony, edmonton, canada

I'm seeing a number of inaccuracies and misunderstandings from comments on both sides. I would encourage Catholics to study the history of the Anglican church from the Anglican perspective and Anglicans to study the beliefs and origin of the Catholic church from the Catholic perspective instead of the two groups relying on what they thing they already "know". We always attack that which we do not understand. It is incumbent upon both sides to seek the truth, which is what God wants from each of us anyway. "Seeking the truth" is a journey; not a destination.

Scott, cincinnati, Ohio, USA

The Eastern Orthodox Churches are willing and hoping to reunite with our Western brothers and sisters, just as soon as the Latin Church renounces the seven innovations it has added since the Seven Ecumenical Councils. The Philioque, Papal Supremacy, Purgatory, and the several counter-reformation innovations. If Christendom would just move to the state of the Church of the Councils, there will be unity. The Eastern and Western Churches need to heal the break in the Body of Christ. A Greek Church, Russian Church, Ukrainian Church, Latin Church, English Church, Serbian Church, Coptic Church Armenian Church, Antiochian Church; all autonomous with one confession, in communion.

There is nothing new to add to Christs revelation and teachings, he was and is perfect in his will. The Church's role is not to add or improve upon His teachings.
"Christ revealed it, the Apostles recorded it, the Church Presearves it"
-St Athanasius the Great

Kirk , Eagle River, Alaka, USA

This reminds me of the bigger issue... according to the Methodist minister L.L. Nash that the "Church is a hospital for sinners, not a musuem for Saints"

With all the suffering in the world, these faith beliefs need to reach out to the sinners we are... This includes the homosexual, the sick, the homeless, the prisoners, the criminal, the crack smoker...

This boils down to money... and who gets to be the Church of the wealthy. It's not about doing the work of Jesus.

DCGibbs, Boise, ID, USA

if you do not wish to reunite with the Catholic Church then don't - if however you desire unity then be embraced by the mother church and her doctrines which have navigated two thousand years of turbulent history proclaiming the Gopsel of Christ. Communion with Rome is not a threat but an opportunity to rebuff under a common head the deconstruction of christianity by secularlists in society- those that fear the church think in stereotypical ways and are hooked on an individualism that simply doesn't work - commonality of belief, uniformity in worship, and a clear focal point for leadership are what we need in a world increasingly hostile to traditional, organised religion.

iain wood, bolton, lancs

People always are critical of that which they don't fully understand. Just a reminder about "authoritarianism": The Anglican church has the "authoritarianism" of the King of England as its origin. The Catholic church has changed siginificantly since the reformation. For those who don't believe this, I refer you to the practices of penance of that time as compared to now and to the methods by which the liturgy is celebrated. What hasn't changed is the Catholic Catechism. Religion should be based on truth. God IS truth and therefore has no beginning and no end, and is therefore unchanging Himself! Truth remains constant and doesn't change as culture and society's belief system changes. Religion is a system of beliefs and worship through which one builds and grows a personal relationship with God. The beliefs taught by the pope have remained the same from the time of St. Peter.
Lastly, regarding "call no man father", I suggest you investigate true Catholic teaching on this.

Scott, cincinnati, Ohio, USA

"Anglicans are also urged to begin praying for the Pope during the intercessionary prayers in church services, and Catholics are asked also to pray publicly for the Archbishop of Canterbury."

I for one will add a prayer for the Archbishop of Canterbury along with my daily prayer for the pope. If it is God's will that this happen, then let us storm heaven for his help.

CG, Maryland, USA

Ephesians 4:3-6

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

Greg F., Delray Beach,

As an american episcopalian, I would be willing to go a lot more than half-way to be able to be reunited with Rome. Such a union would not please many social gospel folk in the american fold, but for some of us it would be a tremndous inbreaking of grace. We are epsicopalians becuase we belive the CoE to be a part of the 'one, holy apostolic church'. If our relations with the CoE are rent, then we are shut out from apostolicity. Rome would cure that, as well as allow us to be part of the solution rather than part of the problem.

A B King, Princeton, NJ

What a brilliantly intelligent coment from Alex, London. Well done..... Closed minds = unhappiness.

Scott, London, England

This is unlikely to happen. The division between Anglicanism and Rome is about far more than the authority of the pope.

In particular the official doctrine of the two churches on HOW we relate to God and on what basis is poles apart.

I along with many Anglicans would have no option but to leave the Anglican church and find a home in one of the free evangelical churches if this plan came to fruition.

Since the fastest growing Anglican congregations in the UK are evangelical ones who are likely to share my view, the idea seems like an Anglican suicide note.

Laurence, Birmingham, uk

If the people had wanted to be Roman Catholics they would presumably have been christened in that faith. Personally I did not want my children in a faith that preaches GOD and then have priests and nuns doing just what is supposed to be forbidden. Is it the rule do not practice what you preach.

Dorothy, England,

Agree with Sean (Orlando, Florida) above.
Biblical prophesy is coming true before our eyes:
'Come out of her , my people, ......................' Rev. 18v4

Debbie, Gloucester, UK

Reading the responses to the readers is distressing as none have reflected the true aim of Christianity, regardless of sect ... an aspiration to live and forgive as Christ taught us. As long as political divisiveness is the focus of our future, our children will not learn the principles of the Sermon on the Mount, but rather how to hold grudges and kill through physical or emotional acts of words and weapons.

Chris, LONDON, UK

This appears to be the only practical way for the Anglican Communion to survive. The split between the Christian orthodox and politically correct liberal revisionists is deadly serious. The American orthodox are abandoning the Episcopal church by the tens of thousands. Since the Anglican archbishops cannot bring themselves to solve this problem of faith, the apparent solution is for those who are Christians first and Anglicans second to go to the Catholic church, or abandon high church altogether for a more Biblically oriented non-denomination church.

Bill, Lightfoot, VA

This is a common sense solution for those Anglicans and Episcopalians who, in the context of this crisis, realize the unitive aspect of the Papacy. This is the rock upon which the Church is built. As for those who are mentally stuck in the "reformation" mode of thinking of 500 years ago, relax. If this comes to pass, it wil only be an "anti-schism", a return to the Mother Chuch for some. The Church of England, or something like it, will still be there for the rest of you, although now futher "purified" of its papist sympathisers. You will be able to pursue your agendas unencumbered of these romanish elements who swam the Tiber.

Mark, Suffolk, USA

It is sad to see that this issue is even being discussed in the 21st century. Any attempt to boost either church is a retrograde step for our long term survival. Reinforcing primitive superstitions will not lead to a better country or a better world and we risk taking a step here which may have untold consequences for future generations. If the Church of England dies, then let it do so gracefully and go into the history books along with temples of Zeus and Apollo. Let us not try to cling on to things that most rational people know are utter fantasy, however comforting. Perhaps the churches can be managed by the national trust instead, or English heritage perhaps? Just lets not give them away into the hands of another backward belief system...

Dr W Smith, Cambridge, UK

Unity is only acceptable if there is no compromise on truth as enshrined in scripture.Unity must never be pursued for its own sake.The danger is to rationalise scripture to suit the moral laxity of the age must be guarded against.Doctrine must not be compromised.

Tony Dibble, Perth, Australia/Perth

The proposals to reunite obviously have their origin in the unBiblical teachings and examples of various branches and leaders in the Anglican church.

Doug, Malone, Florida USA

Contrary to the views above of Ray, the Church of England was founded in England by St. Augustine of Canterbury. It has always maintained a unique identity as a community of faith. It is true that the unique "middle way" Anglicanism owes its existence to the Elizabethan compromise between protestantism and the Church of Rome. It has a unique ethos, contrary to Ray's rather uninformed view, which seems to be shared by most Roman Catholics, among others, founded on three principles articulated by the Anglican theologian Richard Hooker: scripture; tradition and right reason.

I suspect a great many Anglicans would take strong exception to the obliteration of their religious identity. For instance, has anyone even bother to ask the Evangelical wing of the Church what it thinks? Or the Queen? I agree that Ms. Gledhill's article seems to raise far more questions than it answers. As for a Roman Catholic Anschluss of the Angican communion, don't hold your breath!

Brian Collinson, Oakville, Canada

I thought Anglicans had a united doctrinal statement, the Thirty Nine Articles of Religion. If Anglicans worldwide would just stick with that, things would fall into proper order fast and there would be no time or tought of uniting with Romanism.

Bruce Prentice, Zeeland, Michigan

I certainly hope this will not happen.I'm not a Catholic or an Anglican but I can see all the glaring differences between the two. The Queen is the head of the Church in this country and as Defender Of The Faith I sincerely hope she does just that and defends the faith of the Protestant Christians in Britain against the wiles of Rome.Why should Christians in this country bow to the will of an old man in Rome who was elected by other old men.

Ann Owen, Gravesend, Kent

Errrmm.... Ray of New York. I think you'll find that Henry's first wife was divorced not executed.

Mick, Derby, England

Mr Hugh seems to be ignorant of the fact that that is the post reformation tale to justify the break with Rome.
where did the roman soldiers bring chistianity from? from the USA????

roberto carelli, oxford, uk

Do we want to lose our freedom and our sovereignty of faith to Rome? After the EU, now the Catholic church? No, thank you. Friendly relationship, why not! But that's enough!

Andreas, Rennes, France

Has anyone told Prince Charles yet?

Christopher Gillibrand, Brussels (in exile), Belgium

Fear not! For our kingdom in heaven is not predicated on which man-made, christian organization one belongs. Rather, rejoice and be committed to belief in Christ the Son and that the entrance to heaven is there for us because of the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross. Do not elevate the proceedings of man above that of which is God.

Kevin, Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A.

Actually Jim Haughey the Church of England was created by Elizabeth and Edward VI; Henry VIII lived and died a catholicin spite of his break from Rome. The Cof E's teachings are based on the Bible and the Bible alone, whereas the RC church holds to Bible and tradition (even if tradition contradicts the Bible!) The two are incompatible and I would have to leave the Church of England if it ever bowed to the pope.

margaret robinson, london, uk

"The Queen is Governor of my church and that is the way it is going to stay. Accept the 'authority' of a misogynist who decries abortion, euthanasia and birth control? "

Susan
your ideas are as sad as they are un-christian. The reformation finshed a long time ago. You and your Queen are quite safe from "papists".

Denis Collins, LONDON,

Wow, it seems rampant secularism and a 'progressive' Christianity are not as 'attractive' as they onced seemed. As a Catholic I pray for unity in the Churchand under terms like these, it can and should be accomplished.

Now, all we need is for us to be this close with our Eastern brethren.

Anthony, Bayonne, USA/NJ

The Holy Roman Catholic Church was founded by Peter. The Anglican Church was founded by a secular King. Reform that.

Dennis, New Jersey, USA

Yes, this will happen, because the Catholic Church is the one, true, holy catholic and APOSTOLIC church....! The catholic church is the original and true church, founded by Jesus, the God-man, and handed down directly through the apostles and their designated successors. A.all other churches are the creations of men who thought they knew better. Good luck with that.

Paul, North Woods,

To those who say this can never happen: it's already happened, as the article mentioned. When the Anglican Communion began ordaining women, there was an influx of Anglicans into union with Rome. I've worshipped at one such church in San Antonio (Our Lady of Atonement -- see www.atonementonline.com), It could, and probably will, happen again, as the Anglican Communion strays farther from orthodoxy. I doubt the entire Anglican church will reunite with Rome, and agree that will never happen, but large chunks of it just might.

Jason, Houston, TX

Let me first state that I neither CofE or RC. But from what I understand RCs accept the Pope as 'Christ on Earth'. I do not believe CofEs have an equivalent as they currently stand. To join with RC would REQUIRE them to accept this teaching.
That may be a small doctrinal point but it has major implications.

Des, London,

The Church of England began as a way of a king ditching his wife, yes, but it also began as a Protestant reformation. Henry VIII wanted an heir but Archbishop Cranmer's vision was a church devoted to reading scripture, daily prayer and regular sacraments.
To accept again the authoritarian structures of Rome - and the Roman Church sees saying amen to their eucharistic prayer as assent to all of their doctrines, including the two infallible ones the immaculate conception and the bodily assumption of the virgin Mary - would be to curtail our Protestant faith. The Christian Church is about freedom within the Spirit and not within boundaries set by an hierarchy.
This also denies God the choice of calling women and gay people to His priesthood. I am neither but would not dare to dictate to the Almighty that he call only those of my gender and sexuality.

I R Eric Petrie, Salwarpe, Worcestershire , UK

The problems of how to deal with Confession and divorce will be the key points. If they are worked out this reunion will work. If not the Episcopal Church will soon fall under her own weight. The Gene robinson problem will kill the American Episcopal Church first. If it is God's will we can and will welcome our brothers and sisters home to Rome.

Kevin Collins , Staten Island, USA

actually, the Roamn Soldiers did not bring Christainity to the islands but the Christian apostles were able to spread the Faith more easily because of the Roman roads. So, in a way the Roman empire opened the way for the Faith to be spread easily.

As to Mark Allen, not sure which side you are on...the more people step away from belief in God our world becomes less civil...case in point, open any newspaper turn on any T.V., What if all people could model Christ in their lives...if that could happen then we would need someone there to lead us in clarity...

Athanasius, Chicago, USA

It's amazing that out of the first six comments, four are pessimistic and one just flippant. Benedict was a lad when he had his Nazi association. I'm an RC and would like this reunion as I believe Anglican influence would help dilute Papal thinking on (Susan Parkes) concerns (e.g. birth control). Her "No, never, no way" and megalomania / misogynist diatribe show a mindset that will, sadly, scupper this brilliant initiative. Just like in Ulster.......for years! We must pray that if this is God's will that it will happen. The Moslem comment is very interesting, with a view I would like to hear propogated more from within Islam.

Don O'Connor, Manchester, UK

Hugh,
You are of course speaking of the Celtic Catholic church which of course still has it's roots in the Roman Catholic Church as do ALL churches. In fact from the time of Christ's resurection there was only ONE church...the Catholic Church..meaning the "Universal Church"..read St. Ignatius of Antioch in 100AD. God is at work to knit back together His church that has been fractered into thousands of pieces (denominations). I for one see this as very hopeful and pray for it's success.

Ken, Tulsa, OK, USA

I was very glad to read the news that the two biggest churches in Britain arediscussing the possibility of reuniting. Of course faith is something personal and as such there are always going to be divergences amongst Christians but we are all Christians and we should work together. In the 21th century it does not make sense to continue to operate divided on the basis of political divisions that took place over 400 years ago. I truly hope that unity can happen and that the two churches can both strengthen under one united church and that they can both learn from each other. I think that the Catholic church has a great deal to learn from the Anglican church, most importantly its openness and its willingness to involve every person, regardless of their gender, in the running of the church.

Stef, London, England

I wonder if Nostradamus had anything to say about this? It is certainly a major shift after being an independent church for over 400 years. How would this change serve the Anglican parishioners?

Steve, Topton, North Carolina

It would be a realistic solution that Christians reunite under one roof,There is no arguement Christs Love is for us all.Christianity has to move with the times As a Practicing Roman Catholic I would certainly welcome my fellow Christians our long lost brothers and sistersThe Catholic church needs also to move with the times and be genuinly flexible in helping our brother and sisters in there time of need.

Tommy Little, Coventry, England (UK)

Given that Prince Charles wants to be the defender of all faiths it makes sense that the Angican Church figures out who is going to be the official head of the Church when the monarch may have the broader public in mind. It is not unreasonable to explore closer ties with the main body of Christianity but it seems very unlikely that a union with the Catholic Church would happen in anything other than a symbolic way.

Philip Larkin, Henley, UK

Does this mean that all the Anglican members of ARCIC accept Papal Infallibility and in particular the bull Apostolicae Curae of 1896 where Leo X111 speaking Ex Cathedra (i.e. infallibly = no arguments, no ifs and buts this is the 'truth' for ever and ever) pronounced all Anglican orders 'absolutely null and utterly void' ? This means that all us Anglicans who think we are deacons, priests and/or bishops are actually laymen - if ARCIC think I'm going to confess to the Inquisition that my 34 years as a clergyman has been a sham they can think again! Lets also remember that the Anglican Communion is just that - a Communion of Christian people embracing many different shades of theological thought and practice - it is not a 'one size fits all confession'!

Rev Bernard Rumbold, Brompton Regis, England

Please, everyone, read the "God Delusion" by Richard Dawkins, "The End of Faith" and "Letter to a Christian Nation" by Sam Harris and think about the calamities which have been brought to this earth over the last two thousand years by those who embrace religion. It's time to reject the mythology of it all and turn to reason in the conduct of our lives and our affairs.

John Baker, Los Angeles, USA/California

The level of anti-Catholicism on the part of those who, thus far, have commented on this article is astonishing.

Kathryn, Haddonfield, NJ, USA

Under the guise of inclusion this strikes me as yet another exclusionary tactic. Which church will best keep out gays? One reason many of us left the Roman church in favor of Anglicanism is its liberal positions on women and celibacy for clergy. The other reason is to escape the whimsical unilateralism of an "infallibe" Pontiff. This compromise will not solve the spirıtual crisis we are facing. These exclusions are old ideas, ındeed dead ideas. FDo we really belive that gays are the last group we want excluded? That the others - blacks and women - were mistakes but this is valid? Rowan Williams needs to show courage here and not compliance to the extremists. Ordination of gays is part of a larger moral challenge facing society - and it's a test we should not fail. Regrettably, the whole desire to "heal" seems to have more to do with property and income than Christian values. Those are clear. No one should be excluded if they wish to be a practicing Christian. This ıs all about the sexual discomfort of men. All of it. It will pass in a generation. We must allow it to.

Paul, New York,

Pricess Margaret did the right thing, she gave up her love for what was right, No divorce. Look at what the crown has brought, a dead princess, and a prince who has run amouck, foisting his vile divorcee wife upon the crown. You want this for the next head of your church? I am sorry, the church of England is dead as evidenced by the numbers in the pews. It has hit a point of NO RETURN. This is a house divided against itself, and you bible thumpers know what that means. Throughout history, God has raised up and then let die Orders that serve and No longer serve it's purpose. It has taken 400+ years and the Church of England is about to fall, divided from within and over what, One of the 7 capital sins, men who lay with other men. Good Luck to the Church of England, thats all I can offer, for in this case only sack cloth and ashes on the part of its head, THE QUEEN, will do to save the church and in their ARROGANCE that won't happen. Pray for UNITY as they all might be ONE.

Clem Boeke, Akron, USA/OHIO

all of the comments are speculation. not any hard history or understanding of theology. the popes' did not side with hitler- read the jewish account not the account that hates the church. the inquisition was the most lienent court in europe-read the latest secular history, they kept great records. the new testement was written and preserved by the catholic church-paul was writing to the churches so the church existed before the new testement people always say the church is in the dark ages. they fail to realize that the truth cannot change and if you fail to fully explore the history and theology of the church i would say you are in the dark ages. cardinal newman an anglican investigated he had to convert to the catholic faith. if all who wrote comments are truly seeking the truth you will come home to rome.

james froelich, mandan, north dakota

It is really quite dispiriting to read most of the comments here. One might have thought that the coming together of Rome and Canterbury should at least merit rational debate; you know, the idea that people of Christian spirit and faith might be able to get along together as followers of the same God. Reading the remarks here, though, one might as well not bother. The past wrongs of the RC Church are revisited, the Inquisition is mentioned and Pope Benedict is seen as a follower of Hitler (he was a teenager in the Hitler Youth - he had little choice but to join). I hope the Bishops involved in these discussions see the comments of some of their 'faithful' here; they will see how little 'Christian spirit' some have and how bigoted some are. It may be better to ignore unity by design and let it happen naturally; as the Anglican churches break up, as they surely will, some followers will go to Rome and others to various smaller Christian sects - thank God!

Lester May, Camden Town, London, UK

And whether you like it or not, the Roman Catholic Church has been the chief means by which the Bible has been passed down through the centuries.

Ann Keith, Cambridge, uk

Ha, ha thats a good one Ann. It is clear you don't know your dark age history.

So let me enlighten you. If anyone was caught with a Bible during the years 538AD to 1798AD they were put to death unless they repented. The punishment was being burned at a stake.

David, Durham, England

Thanks be to God that the Lord is slowly healing the schism.

Some of the earlier comments show as much about the posters ignorance of the Catholic Church than they do about the topic at hand!

God Bless!

Andre, London, Surrey

I sincerely hope the Church of England keeps well away from that of Rome, at least until a new leadership in Rome shows evidence of that ecumenism that was lost after Popes John XXIII and Paul VI.

The present unprecedented - though undeclared - crisis between the Italian State and the Vatican, following the Vatican's interference with Italian public affairs is only the latest evidence of this new pope's unpresentable policy.

Claudio Frasca-Polara, Ascoli Piceno, Italy

How many additional things would this amalgamation require anglicans to believe? Infallibility? Immaculate conception? Bodily assumption into heaven of the mother of Jesus? Let alone the rules in relation to human fertility?

Peter Schofield, Nottingham, uk

Do I detect a whiff of panic amongst our Anglican bretheren? I'm afraid that when you allow christian teachings to be decided by which way 'the wind is blowing' you end up disintegrating. This process is inevitable.

Sean Preston, Clitheroe, UK

This would be a step backwards for Great Britian. The Catholic church is rotting from the top down, I have greater affinity for the Queen as the head of the Church. The head should be a woman, life comes from women, war comes from men.

James, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

I hope the he comments from the C of E persuasion already posted, are the not the feelings of the majority. There is nothing christian in deriding other Christain churches. There is no hiding from the problems that the C of E has with its declining number of followers and the big issues it has to face up to. The British and particularly the English, rule by compromise - couldn't an acceptable compromise be reached between Christains, so that toleration and understanding can allow the more important messages of Christianity to be spread into the wider world.

Riley, Kiev, Ukraine

What protestants fail to realize is this. The Catholic Church is still fighting the Protestant Reformation intends to bring all of you protestants back into the true Church (from their point of view).

By all polls Christianity is dying in Europe, Europe has turned agnostic and or atheistic. Churches both Protestant and Catholic are losing attendance at alarming rates. Either Christians unite or your finished in Europe.

You want to keep fighting the Catholic vs Protestant Wars? You want hate each other while still professing the love of God? Go right ahead. An loss even more people out of your pews.
Former Catholic, Wiccan/Pagan 25 years now.

Edgars F, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America

Please come back.

mike, kutztown, usa

Who does Sean, of Orlando, Florida think wrote the books of the Bible in the first place? Men did. There is no such thing as a God-given biblical orthodoxy, there is only the interpretation that man, throughout the centuries, has placed on the myriad of different types of writings - theological, ethical, doctrinal, historical - that now comprise the Bible. And whether you like it or not, the Roman Catholic Church has been the chief means by which the Bible has been passed down through the centuries.

Ann Keith, Cambridge, uk

Seems to be the most appropriate and best way forward in a global world. The beauty of it is that there is no down side. The Anglican communion is losing it's direction in a unchecked move to trendiness and the more it tries to be relevant, the more irrelevant and even sill it seems. The Catholic Church needs ways to move forward, adjust and evolve without compromising fundamental values. A coming together satisfies both needs. Of course there will be fringes on both denominations who will be unhappy, but then their always will be those who can never be entirely pleased. As to the role of monarchy in the Cof E, well that is a bit of joke anyway and made even more preposterous if Charles become King! I say to both denominations of the same religion, get on with it. What unites both denominations is far greater than what separates them.

James Lee, Epsom, England

religion = trouble

alex, london,

Remember, the Anglicans broke away from the Catholic Church at the Reformation. It is the extreme liberal dogma of the past number of years, such as the brilliantly confused thinking of Mr. Parkinson of Hastings and Mrs. Parkes of Birmingham, that has caused this possibility in the first place.

Laurence, Dublin, Ireland

I suspect the "high church" element within Anglicanism which feels an affinity to Rome is actually quite small. The component of the church which objects to the acceptance of homosexuality has much more in common in my experience with evangelical protestant Christian movements. Returning to Rome won't be a solution for them to the problem of a lack of direction in the Anglican church and increased liberalisation.

GenideF, London,

"Be of good cheer,master Ridley, and play the man; for we shall this day light such a candle in England as I trust by God´s grace shall never be put out"
Well, how about it? It seems to flicker a bit, unseemly though it will be. Latimer and Cranmer--should not that be more than enough to stay out of the territory of the scarlet Rottweiler ?
The spread of obscurantism should be kept at bay at any cost. And papism is an especially obnoxious brand, dangerous as it is perpetrated by people of otherwise good intellect.

ramlau, hirtshals , denmark

Given that the Episcopal Church in the USA is on a deliberate death march, this merger would give believers such as myself a path that is sorely needed.

James E. Hicks, Newark, Delaware

Oh Dear, what mis-guided bitterness from some of the previous comments.
Remember that the Church of England was founded purely to give a corrupt King a Divorce. The world Christian community has moved on and adapt, unlike the Muslim religion which appears to run the same way it did a thousand years ago.
Remeber the age old saying United we Stand, Divided we Fall!!
Unity under the figurhead of the Pope is the only way forward, with welcome changes brought about by merger and discussion from both churches.

Jim Haughey, Letchworth, UK

I will be gone from the Episcopal church if there's any yield to authoritarian structures. Whether they are Roman or Nigerian, authoritarian tyranny will kill its followers and I won't be one of them.

Curtis, Denver, Colorado USA

Are you Kidding!! -This will never happen. Paid off Anglican Church officials may try it but it will never happen. Publish more realistic articles please.

David Gilliespie, Irvine, CA

Those Bishops in the Anglican Church who desire unity with the Roman Catholic Church are they saying the Catholic Church has changed since the Reformation? Not at all, the Catholic Church is just the same, they only have good PR. Only one person in scripture was called Holy Father and that was God the Father Himself, and now the Pope has taken that name to himself !! Shame on that church!!

Alasdair, Portree, Scotland

The Anglican Church was founded on the blood of a Kings Wife......Need We say more?

Ray, New York, USA

Is this the last gasp of a desperate dying animal. We can but hope so. With any luck this will also lead to the disestablishment of any state religion.

Mark Allen, Nottingham,

Ruth Gledhill seems to be ignorant of the fact that when St Augustine came here in 597 he found Christians here already. The Church in England has been here since the Roman solders brought Christianity to these islands. We came under the authority of Rome for approximately 1000 years until the Reformation. The Church of England is still the ancient Catholic Church of these islands, Rome is not our mother Church. I say this as one who is Catholic first and Anglican second.

Hugh Bonsey, Salisbury, UK

As an American Catholic who feels over burden by the influence of Roman, I understand the feelings of my Anglican brethren against a communion with the Roman Catholic Church. Having said that, a closer connection between our Churchs might help bring Roman out of the Dark Ages.

Rene Fontaine, Chicago,

Quite simple, this isn't going to happen.

Mark, Newcastle,

Anglicans trading one apostasy for another is not an exercise in church unity, it is a Hobson's choice for the remaining believers. A return to biblical orthodoxy is the only road to unity. The only Christian churches that are growing and thriving by a means other than birth rate, are the ones who have accepted the authority of the Bible as written and rejected the idea that clergy have any authority in making (or remaking) doctrine. Christ's words must be at the center of doctrine, not man's words.

Seán, Orlando, Florida

Since the reformation RCs have tried to counter & take back what they lost & this is only another way for them to try to do just that , the Pope of Rome and the Vatican itself have been responsible for numerous Global Conflicts and many disgraceful un-holy acts including the Paedophile cover ups they are very devious in their ways and to many these ways are not Christian , the same problems with Rome still exist as were clear in the 16th centuary which brought Luther & Calvin to the fore ,Not much has changed !! Many feel certain church leaders here are simply weak on principle they and we all should look at Rome for exactly what it is An Evil Devious Gang of Contol freaks who think they are the only true Religion & the rest of us are heritics .

Colin Campbell, Glasgow, Scotland

No, never, no way. The Queen is Governor of my church and that is the way it is going to stay. Accept the 'authority' of a misogynist who decries abortion, euthanasia and birth control? At a time when the world's population already exceeds what it can comfortably sustain in terms of food and water? A religious leader who bans effective contraception is just interested in increasing his own power over people. Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.
My children have been baptised and I look forward to then being maried in church. If this unity takes place that won't happen. I'l be just another Christian who never goes to church. I will pray people come to their senses.

Susan Parkes, Birmingham, England

It would appear that the religions are gearing up for an all out war against Islam...circling the wagons, so to speak. People around the world should take a stand against all those who believe that violence is a viable way to a means and that success in life is measured by how big a pile of money one sits on..that a barrel of oil means more than human life. Haven't we all had enough of Hell on Earth? And who in their right mind would follow a leader whose past affiliations include an association with the maddest most prolific killer of innocence known to mankind - Adolph Hitler? (Benedict - you know who and what you are...)

Deborah, Cumming, U.S.A.

In the name of sanity: keep the status quo! do we want the Inquisition back? the autos da fé? is it not enough warning to be read in what happens between the sunni and shia in the Middle East?. Moments like this I am glad I choose to be an apostate Moslem. My faith in the inescapable onipresent "...." does not depend on fatwah of angry old men, nor does it matter whether homosexual Overseeers of their Faith want to lead their flock to everlasting blessedness in Paradise. If and When " .... "wills it then that will happen.
Amen

Pandji Anom, Wanaka, New Zealand

The acid test of whether they were serious about "full ecclesiastical communion" would of course be whether the Pope were prepared to surrender his primacy and once again share authority with the other patriachs. No matter how "rational" (the Pope's favourite word, last year) that would be, I can't see it happening.

Ian Kemmish, Biggleswade, UK

This radical plan takes away what Anglican Christians believe that their is only one God, to follow the Roman Catholics will be madness, especially on peoples right to choose birth control and on population explosion. Who wants he Roman Catholics and with their dogma and Pope to lead us.

As a member of the Church of England I believe the move will split the churches and force Christians to join the charismatic free Churches and the political churches like the Christian Outreach Centre Cult from Australia.

Lots of Priests and people will leave the Church of England if they join with the Catholics.

Cert Theology Diocese of Portsmouth 1991

Peter Parkinson, Hastings, UK

all churches whom broke away will return to the catholic church gotta go back gotta go back

ciro, houston, tx