Forward in Faith

Forward in Faith is the umbrella group within the Church of England for all organisation and individuals that have reservations about the ordination of women to the priesthood. It was founded in response to the General Synod’s decision to ordain women to the priesthood in November 1992, though its concern for Christian truth and discipline now goes far beyond any single issue.

 It aims to provide an ecclesiastical structure which continues the order of

bishop, priest and deacon as the Church has received them. Forward in Faith is not however a “subversive” organisation, and genuinely seeks to play a full part in the life of the Church. The Act of Synod specifically states that:

“the integrity of differing belief and positions concerning the ordination of Women to the priesthood should be mutually recognised and respected.”

Many Forward in Faith parishes are looked after by Provincial Episcopal Visitors, and within the York Diocese, our PEV is the Bishop of Beverley.

However because of the special provision available to us through the kindness of the Archbishop, the Most Revd & R L Hon David Hope, the Bishop of Whitby the Rt. Revd. Robert Ladds fulfils this role in the York Diocese.

Although not a “Forward in Faith” parish, S. Saviour’s Church faithfully maintains its catholic tradition, and many members of the congregation are individually members of Forward in Faith. We are privileged to be well looked after by the Bishop of Hull as well as the Bishop of Whitby and of course the Archbishop himself.

Further details about the work of Forward in Faith in the York Diocese can be obtained from:

Fr Harry Hopkins  tel: 01642-868086 Chairman

Mr Barry Taylor   tel: 01904-679822

Details of Forward in Faith nationally can be found at:

Forward in Faith General Office

7 Tufton Street

London

SW1P 3QN                              tel: 1071 976 0727

email: forwardinfaith@compuserve.com