Synod Votes Against Women Bishops

The Church of England's struggle to ordain women bishops faced another setback as traditionalists blocked the legislation. Despite a majority supporting the change, the complex voting system required a 2/3 majority in each of the three houses, and the laity's narrow opposition prevented progress. The debate highlighted deep divisions within the church, with strong emotions and differing opinions on the legitimacy of women bishops. The outcome risks portraying the church as outdated, and the issue will not be revisited until at least 2015.

What was the main reason for the failure to ordain women bishops in the Church of England?

• Insufficient number of dioceses approving

• Opposition from the Archbishop of Canterbury

• Traditionalists blocking the legislation

• Lack of support from the clergy

What did the outgoing Archbishop of Canterbury emphasize during the debate?

• The need for more bishops

• A call for unity

• The importance of tradition

• The role of women in the church

What is required for a measure to pass in the Synod's voting system?

• Approval from the Archbishop

• A 2/3 majority in each house

• Unanimous approval from the clergy

• A simple majority in any house

Which group was crucial in the decision against women bishops?

• The bishops

• The clergy

• The laity

• The parishioners

When is the issue of women bishops expected to be revisited?

• In 2013

• In 2014

• In 2016

• In 2015