Navigating the Tensions of Tolerance and Inclusivity in the Anglican Church

Nearly two years ago, discussions in the Anglican Church, notably featured in the The Melbourne Anglican (TMA), reignited the debate over tolerance. This article focus comes in the wake of an apology from Archbishop Jeremy of Queensland, directed towards LGBT+ folk. The apology marks a pivotal shift in the church’s stance on inclusivity and acceptance, prompting a fresh examination of how tolerance is both understood and implemented within the church community.

Fiona McLean, an Anglican commentator and Gafcon Australia board member, voiced concerns in her TMA article "What we should and shouldn’t tolerate must be determined by God," about the dangers of excessive tolerance. Using the Trojan Horse as an analogy, McLean argues that while tolerance may appear appealing, it risks allowing behaviours and attitudes that undermine the church’s core values. Her perspective highlights a fear that unchecked tolerance could erode the church’s doctrinal integrity and identity, advocating for strict boundaries to maintain theological consistency.

McLean also critiques former Archbishop Phillip Aspinall's notion of “comprehensive” Anglicanism, which advocates for accommodating a wide range of views within the church while deferring resolution of contentious issues until divine guidance is received. Although it sounds inclusive, I would argues it functions as a camouflage for postponing action on urgent issues, such as same-sex marriage and the ordination of queer folk, effectively placing them in a “God will handle it” basket instead of addressing them directly! 

Conversely, Joel McFadyen has presented a counter-argument in his article "Love your neighbour (terms and conditions apply): On tolerance" that emphasises the importance of embracing diversity and inclusivity. McFadyen contends that rejecting tolerance risks driving the church into irrelevance and missing the opportunity to reflect Christ’s radical love. Drawing from personal experiences and biblical teachings, McFadyen advocates for a form of inclusivity that is both welcoming and affirming of all individuals, regardless of their identity. His argument highlights a vision of the church as a space where compassion and acceptance are paramount, reflecting a broader and more inclusive understanding of Christian love.

The recent apology from Archbishop Jeremy adds another layer to this ongoing discussion. This formal acknowledgment of past wrongs and a commitment to reconciliation with LGBT individuals signals a shift towards greater inclusivity. It aligns more closely with McFadyen’s vision of radical inclusivity and challenges the notion that tolerance could be inherently destructive. Instead, the apology illustrates a practical application of tolerance that seeks to heal and include rather than exclude. While I agree with McFadyen’s vision, I believe we should move beyond the concept of tolerance—no one wants to be merely tolerated! 

The apology also speaks to several key insights for the church moving forward. Firstly, it highlights the importance of acknowledging and addressing past harms as a necessary step towards healing and building a more inclusive community. Secondly, it demonstrates the need for the church to balance maintaining doctrinal integrity with engaging with contemporary social contexts, finding a way to honour theological convictions while embracing diversity. Thirdly, it serves as a reminder that tolerance and inclusivity should be manifested in concrete actions and attitudes rather than remaining abstract concepts. Finally, it emphasises the value of ongoing dialogue within the church community, and outside of the church, encouraging open discussions to address concerns and build understanding.

As the Anglican Church navigates these complex issues, the lessons from Archbishop Jeremy’s apology offer a path forward. They provide an opportunity for the church to reflect on its practices and reaffirm its commitment to the values of love and acceptance at the heart of the Christian faith. In doing so, the church can work towards becoming a more welcoming and compassionate community for all, embodying the inclusive spirit that Christ’s teachings call for.

Let us pray for a service dedicated to reconciliation and healing for LGBT+ folk within the church, in response to the recent apology. May this act serve as a model for other parts of the church both nationally and globally.

Photo Source: TMA