From the Anglican Communion Network: “Separate structure” next week [Updated]

Update: From the Rev. Bill Thompson, dean of the Western Convocation of the ACN in the Stand Firm comments [boldface mine]:

. . . All this meeting ever was to be was the next step (after the CC bishops met in September) in forming the “separate ecclesiastical structure” that was in the ACN release from Daryl Fenton. This is going to be the next step forward, the concrete beginning of the formation of such a structure. Being declared a province is a ways off, but that does not mean that the CCP aren’t working hard to build the foundation for that future province. We are seeing it before eyes.

Also I would be the most surprised guy on the planet if the ACI communication is having any effect one way or the other on any of the discussion at this meeting in Orlando.

Also, while there are always going to be some friction as so many groups seek to work together, from where I sit I see some challenges, but I don’t see the splintering that others seem to think exists. Patience is the byword here. By itself the fact that this meeting is taking place is very good news. God is working in this.

Original: From the Anglican Communion Network website:

The next major milestone in the development of Common Cause is next week, when the Common Cause Leadership Council gathers in Orlando, Florida on December 18 for its inaugural meeting. The Council comprises the head bishop, a clergy representative, and a lay representative from each Partner. This body represents Common Cause in all its fullness, and has the authority to do the work of the Partnership.

This is the organizing meeting of Common Cause, at which the assembly will elect its first officers and establish its initial committees and task forces. As such, December 18, 2007 will mark the formal beginning of a “separate ecclesiastical structure” in North America. Following this meeting, Common Cause will be in a place to seek official recognition from the Primates of our Communion.

Read it all.