Ruth Gledhill reports:

The Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams admitted he had been caught out
after Pope Benedict XVI announced a new “Apostolic Constitution” to provide
a legal framework for the many thousands of Anglicans and former Anglicans
who wish “to enter into full visible communion with the Roman Catholic
Church”.

The announcement paves the way for thousands of Anglicans worldwide to join
the Roman Catholic church while maintaining elements of their own spiritual
heritage.

Although Dr Williams knew that talks had been taking place in Rome, he was
unaware until two weeks ago of the radical nature of the proposals being
drawn up by Rome.

It seems this new move will open the way for married Anglican priests to transfer to Rome, in particular in response to recent discussions concerning the ordination of women, the acceptance of gays and civil partnerships etc.

Bishop David has reproduced all the announcements and letters on his blog

Church Mouse reports here

How many Anglicans will explore this invitation? Will this open the way for Roman Catholic priests to be married? Will it change the climate in the Church of England for women? Will it help or hinder ecumenical unity? These and other questions come to mind.