The papers have been reporting constantly on the discussion of women bishops at synod. As ever, the headlines tend to sensationalise the issues, and – even skew the impression gained from even the most balanced reportage. I do not believe that the Archbishops have lost their authority, for instance – it’s one of the glories of Angliscanism that, unlike older and younger versions of Christianity you are allowed – even expected – to disagree with authority figures and say so out loud. the point of Synod is not to prove you are climbing the greasy pole, but to try to discern the mind of the Church and the leading of the Spirit.

I daresay the Archbishops are disappointed that their idea didn’t fly, as will be those who voted with them. But the ABC himself told Synod “this is not a test of loyalty” – in other words, let the idea be tested, don’t just vote for it because we are the Archbishops. Disagreeing with authority needs doing graciously and with humility. But true authority will hear disagreement, not react like a toddler. I think the ABC and the ABY showed true leadership by allowing their idea to be tested, rather than manipulating the system.

There has been much commentary in the week folllowing, among which one of the most useful is Ed Beavan’s summary in the Church Times (scroll down for a useful panel on what happens next in the process)

I’ve  collected some blogs that have reported or commented on synod at the weekend. If you have links I’ve missed, please add in the comments.

My posts, here, and here

the voice of sanity on Jeremy Fletcher’s new blog

Nick Baines wondered out loud whether any useful parallels could be made with narcissitic personality disorder. and follows up  today with more nuance on the use of the language of power and victimhood

Bishop Alan Wilson says it’s time for faith

Andrew Brown reports a triumph

good in parts prays and hopes

Revd Lesley Fellows celebrates the Eucharist

church mouse gathers up the news

peter ould hopes that the measure might yet be stopped.

thinking anglicans (several posts and updates from the floor of synod)
church times blog

and more (thanks, commenters):

sue blogging from york has some great perspective on the issues

dodgy liberal

gen-syn blog

and a word from nancy on the eve of synod
ruthie gledhill recorded Bishop Tom’s valedictory: