For the first time the Panel of Reference, established by Archbishop Rowan Williams following the proposals made at the February 2005 Primates’ meeting at Dromantine, met in London from 12th – 14th July, 2005 in preparation for the work of the panel and setting out clear guidelines for the rules and procedures for which the panel will adopt.
Greater focus was placed on to the schemes of extended, shared or delegated Episcopal ministry which have been established in the various Provinces of the communion.
Recognition of schemes included the attempt by Provinces to meet those who have been implicated in serious theological dispute with their bishops or Provinces over recent developments concerning questions of Christian doctrine and discipline.
There were concerns expressed governing the sufficiency of the alternative pastoral oversight provided by the schemes.
The Panel is keeping the schemes under review and will test their capability against the cases referred to it by the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Archbishop Peter Carnley, chairman of the panel of Reference said, “The creation of the Panel of Reference is a new development within Anglicanism. It is our hope and prayer that we can make a significant contribution to the Church’s mission through resolving tensions between Anglicans’.
Further work of the panel will take place immediately on awaiting recommendation by the Archbishop of Canterbury of situations falling within the mandate.