An article has appeared on Anglican Mainstream which may concern some. To allay any confusion, CMS offers a few points of clarification.
- For CMS, the proper place for mission is being in the marketplace. CMS has had a venue at the Greenbelt Festival for many years and it is a brilliant platform from which to offer hospitality and share the gospel.
- GB is not a confessional event but primarily a 'space' for Christians to engage with the arts and cultural trends. There are multiple events, a great range of participants and many thousands of visitors. Many are seekers.
- We are not “sponsors” as has been stated, but “associates” and as such CMS is not involved in the particular decisions under debate.
- While we understand the reasons why Greenbelt has invited Gene Robinson, we are unhappy about it, particularly at this time in the life of the Anglican Communion. CMS supports the Lambeth Conference resolution 1.10 (see our Ethos Statement)
- CMS requirements for people in mission are unequivocal and long-standing because of the gospel and our gospel partnership with Churches in Africa and Asia many of which were planted by CMS.
- CMS this week received a clear bill of health from the Charity Commission having been subject to a Public Benefit Assessment. The Commission made no recommendations for change to the Trustees of CMS. It is a clear affirmation that Evangelistic Mission conveys public benefit.