From Lorna Ashworth
Sir, — Since my involvement with the General Synod began in 2005, I keep hearing about a “listening process” with regard to human sexuality. This term continues to be bandied about, and repeatedly so in the Revd Colin Coward’s letter (13 January). I would like clarification of this term.
As an Anglican Evangelical who seeks to uphold the authority of scripture and live by it faithfully with God’s strength, I am under the impression that, as I have not changed my mind in believing that the only acceptable sexual relationship, according to God’s holy word, should be between a man and a woman within the context of marriage, I am simply not listening. In other words, “not listening” is equated with “not agreeing”.
If this is, in fact, the definition of “listening” by the LGBT community and of Changing Attitude, then it is true: I am indeed not listening.
Further, in his letter Mr Coward uses the words “seriously flawed” when referring to the potential outcome of the House of Bishops Working Group on Human Sexuality. I would agree with him, but for different reasons. If the House of Bishops conducts this exercise based on an experiential and subjective listening process, without faithfully listening to and obeying the Word of God, the result will be more than seriously flawed. We will have been left with a group of “leaders” who have chosen to elevate themselves (and their human wisdom) above God and his revelation. Let us rue the day!
LORNA ASHWORTH
General Synod representative of Chichester diocese
6 Ruston Gardens
London N14 4PF