The following article is taken from the October 1999 issue of Southern Cross, the newspaper for the Diocese of Sydney.

by Sarah Barnett

It is only a matter of time before women become bishops in Australia, according to Dr Muriel Porter, chair of the General Synod Working Group on Women Bishops.

Dr Porter spoke to Southern Cross about the recent interim report issued by the group. A detailed document, it discusses the options and consequences of consecrating women to the level of bishop.

Written by the committee, the report outlines four options for allowing women to be made bishops. No option for barring women from the episcopate is raised.

Moore College lecturer, Dr Robert Doyle, who prepared the theological background to option one, believes there is widespread but ‘nuanced’ support for women bishops in Australia.

“There are a considerable number who want women bishops, but only if the whole church wants them. Then there are those who want women bishops no matter what the cost,” he explained. “Some will not want them if there is no option for alternative episcopal oversight.”

Dr Porter, who is a leading proponent of the ordination of women, emphasised the importance of bringing about this change ‘gently and graciously’. “I’m not one who’ll say ‘all or nothing,” she said. “We are trying to find a way together whereby whatever happens is constructive.”

Dr Ann Young, deputy chair of the committee, is also mindful that the debate be handled sensitively. “If the committee is anything to go by, this debate will not be as acrimonious as the debate on women priests,” she said, stressing the importance of unity.

“It is obviously a divisive issue. But whatever our differences I think it is better to maintain the degree of unity that we have. I hope we (Sydney) don’t see this as an excuse to secede.”

Dr Doyle believes the first option would best promote harmony. “We already have disharmony, ” he said. “It is better to live with each other respecting the conscience of a parish.”

The Report highlights the importance of unity and inclusiveness. The needs of those who – out of conscience – object to Women Bishops are addressed in three of the four options discussed. Alternative episcopal oversight is provided in these cases.