GAFCON severs ties with Church of England over female archbishop appointment

The Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON) has cut ties with the Church of England after the appointment of a female archbishop. The move follows growing divisions over liberal reforms within the Anglican Communion. Meanwhile, a former Anglican bishop has warned of a possible wave of conversions to Catholicism among traditionalist Anglicans.

The controversy began when Bishop Sarah Mullally of London was named the 106th archbishop of Canterbury. GAFCON, which claims to represent at least half of the world's 85 million Anglicans, responded by severing its relationship with the Church of England. The group expressed 'sorrow' over her nomination, accusing her of promoting 'unbiblical and revisionist teachings'.

Msgr. Michael Nazir-Ali, a former Anglican bishop who converted to Catholicism in 2021, has now urged church leaders to prepare for an increase in conversions. He believes the Church of England's liberal direction and internal divisions within the Anglican Communion are driving traditionalists away. Nazir-Ali, now a Catholic priest for the Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham, argued that the Anglican reliance on Scripture alone is risky and that provincial autonomy can create chaos.

He suggested that many Anglicans seeking to uphold orthodox teachings may soon consider joining the Catholic Church. His comments reflect broader tensions as GAFCON and other conservative factions distance themselves from the Church of England's leadership.

The appointment of Archbishop Mullally has deepened the split between liberal and conservative Anglicans. GAFCON's decision to break ties marks a significant shift in the global Anglican landscape. Meanwhile, Nazir-Ali's call for preparedness signals potential long-term changes in church membership.