Gay Bishop Cancels Plans to Speak at Debate

By Pauline J. Chang

The openly gay bishop of the Episcopal Church USA canceled his seat at the Oxford Union debate over the acceptability of homosexuality in the clergy.

Gene Robinson, bishop of New Hampshire, has been at the core of the debates arising within the worldwide body of Anglicans in which the ECUSA takes part. Nearly half of the 77 million Anglicans have protested the consecration of Robinson last November; 13 of 38 worldwide dioceses have already severed relations with the ECUSA for its decision to ordain Robinson.

Within the Anglican Church, a commission had been set to examine the implications of Robinson’s election.

Currently, Robinson, a divorced father of two, lives with his gay lover of 13 years. Robinson was to have appeared at the Oxford Union to justify his consecration as well as the consecration of other practicing homosexuals.

However, according the Robinson, he decided not to attend because “it would not help the church at this time.”

He was due to speak on 11 March, proposing the motion "This House believes a gay lifestyle should be no bar to becoming a bishop".

    Most Popular
  • Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Faith-based films often receive mixed reactions, and The Last Supper is no exception. The movie attempts to bring a fresh perspective to one of the most iconic moments in Christian history, but does it succeed? Some reviews from critics and audiences provide insight into its strengths and shortcomings.

  • ‘The Chosen’ Season 5: The darkest season yet—What to know before watching

    The wait is over—The Chosen is back with its fifth season, and this time, things are getting intense. The new episodes dive straight into the final days of Jesus’ life, covering some of the most emotional and dramatic moments in the Bible. If you’ve been following the series, you already know that The Chosen isn’t just about retelling familiar stories—it’s about bringing them to life in a way that feels real.

  • Massacres in Syria: Over 1,000 dead, including Christians and Alawites

    Syria’s coastal regions have been devastated by a series of massacres, with reports indicating that over 1,000 people—many from Christian and Alawite communities—have been killed in brutal attacks. Entire families have been wiped out, and survivors are fleeing in search of safety as sectarian violence escalates.

  • Kim Sae-ron and Wheesung: The tragic irony of Korean society and the principles of happiness

    Not long ago, the media was in an uproar over actress Kim Sae-ron’s passing. Just months before, the same people who had relentlessly criticized her for her DUI incident were now expressing sympathy, saying, "The world was too harsh on her." The irony is impossible to ignore.

  • Newsboys move forward as a quartet after Michael Tait’s departure

    After more than a decade as the lead singer of the Newsboys, Michael Tait has officially parted ways with the band, marking a significant shift in the Christian rock group’s lineup. The remaining members—Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips, and Adam Agee—have assured fans that they will continue forward, embracing a new season of music and ministry.

Top Stories