A Statement from Bishop Michael Smith

http://episcopal-nd.blogspot.com/2008/03/statement-from-bishop-michael-smith.html

[The Episcopal Diocese of North Dakota] 25 Mar 2008--In the past few days questions have been raised about policies and procedures for licensing a priest to officiate in the Episcopal Church and an article appeared in this morning’s Grand Forks Herald. These policies are governed by the Constitution & Canons of the Episcopal Church which state clearly that priests must be licensed to officiate by the bishop if they have not been ordained in the diocese where they are currently residing.

It is inappropriate to speak publicly about specific personnel matters. However, during these contentious times over the issue of sexual morality in the life of the Episcopal Church and the worldwide Anglican Communion, I have chosen to follow the recommendations of the bipartisan, international “Windsor Report.” Therefore, I will not ordain or license any clergy member who is unable to promise faithfulness in marriage or to abstain from sexual relationships outside of marriage.