Navigating Change: Breakaway Movements in Anglicanism and a Vision for the Anglican Church of Compassion and Justice (ACCJ)

Navigating Change: Breakaway Movements in Anglicanism and the Vision for a Church of Compassion and Justice

The Anglican tradition has long been marked by a rich diversity of theological perspectives and worship styles. Yet, in recent decades, deep divisions have emerged within Anglicanism worldwide, often centred on issues of sexuality, inclusion, and biblical interpretation. These tensions have led to the formation of breakaway groups and new dioceses, each seeking to embody what they believe to be a truer expression of the Christian faith.

The Reality of Breakaway Movements

One prominent example in Australia is the Diocese of the Southern Cross, launched in 2022 as a conservative breakaway from the Anglican Church of Australia (ACA). Led by former Archbishop Glenn Davies, this diocese explicitly forbids same-sex marriage and was formed in response to what its leaders see as a “revisionist” interpretation of Scripture by the mainstream church. The Diocese of the Southern Cross offers a “safe haven” for those who hold traditional views on marriage and sexuality, emphasising adherence to historic biblical teachings.

This movement reflects a broader global pattern, with similar breakaway dioceses and groups forming in North America, Africa, and Europe. These groups often arise from a conviction that the established church has departed from orthodox teaching, particularly on issues like the ordination of women, same-sex blessings, and divorce.

The Impact on the Anglican Church of Australia

The ACA has experienced significant decline in membership over recent years, with census data showing a drop from 3.1 million to 2.5 million adherents in five years. This decline is partly attributed to internal divisions and the alienation of younger generations who seek a more inclusive and affirming church experience.

The conservative stance of groups like the Diocese of the Southern Cross appeals to some, but it also highlights the growing polarisation within Anglicanism. Legal disputes over property and leadership have complicated breakaway efforts in other countries, though Australia’s trust-based property system may mitigate some of these conflicts.

A Graceful Vision: The Anglican Church of Compassion and Justice

Amidst these tensions and fractures, the Anglican Church of Compassion and Justice (ACCJ) exists—not yet as a physical institution, but as a living vision, a cosmic possibility already unfolding in the mind and heart of God. Like a timeless vessel waiting in the wings of eternity, the ACCJ is a sacred imagination, a spiritual “TARDIS” that transcends time and space, ready to materialise when the fullness of God’s kingdom is prepared.

This vision is born from a deep love for the Anglican tradition and a yearning for a church that fully embodies radical inclusion, justice, and compassion. It is a church where LGBTQ+ individuals and all marginalised people are not only welcomed but celebrated and empowered to serve in every aspect of life and ministry.

The ACCJ invites us to imagine a church that lovingly reinterprets historic creeds and articles of faith—embracing amendments that affirm same-sex marriages and the full participation of all God’s children. It acknowledges that the ancient words we cherish were spoken in different times and cultures, and that faithful Christians today seek to express their beliefs in ways that resonate with the justice and love at the heart of the Gospel.

Yet, this vision is also humble and realistic. It recognises that theological diversity can bring challenges—disagreements over doctrines like the virgin birth or the Second Coming may arise, and tensions may test the bonds of community. History reminds us that breakaway churches often face struggles to maintain unity and vitality. But the ACCJ calls for patience, grace, and ongoing dialogue as it journeys toward becoming.

This church is not a call to abandon existing communities or dioceses but a cosmic invitation to a spiritual home that already exists in the realm of God’s will—a place we can enter anytime through prayer, imagination, and faithful longing. It is a sanctuary where all can worship freely, lead boldly, and live authentically without fear of exclusion.

It’s deeply painful when those who are meant to welcome and nurture within the church instead leave people feeling unseen, undervalued, or excluded. To be tolerated rather than truly embraced can fracture one’s spirit and faith. True inclusion demands more than mere tolerance; it calls for genuine respect, understanding, and space for authentic expression.

The ACCJ, as a vision, challenges us to ask: What kind of church does God’s kingdom call us to build? How can Anglicanism remain faithful to its roots while opening wide its doors to the full diversity of God’s beloved? How might new expressions of church life offer hope and belonging to those who have been pushed to the margins?

Balancing Unity and Faithfulness

The story of breakaway churches is complex and often marked by pain. They can deepen divisions and foster “us vs. them” mentalities. Yet, they can also be faithful responses to institutional failures to live out the Gospel’s call to love, justice, and inclusion.

Scripture calls us to love our neighbours and live at peace with one another (Romans 12:18), but it also warns against tolerating ongoing harm or neglect, especially from leaders. When leadership marginalises members or stifles spiritual growth, seeking a healthier fellowship is not only wise but faithful.

Looking Forward

The Anglican Church of Compassion and Justice is a vision still unfolding—a response to real wounds and unmet needs within Anglicanism today. It is not about perfection or division for its own sake, but about creating a space where the radical love of Christ can be lived authentically and fully.

As Anglicanism continues to navigate these challenging waters, the hope remains that all believers will find a spiritual home that nurtures their faith, honours their dignity, and empowers their gifts—whether within existing structures or new, cosmic expressions of the Church.

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A Prayer for the Church of Compassion and Justice

Gracious and loving God, we come before you with hearts full of hope and longing for a church that truly reflects your boundless love and justice. We pray for the Anglican Church of Compassion and Justice—this sacred vision that exists in your eternal heart, waiting to be born into our world.

Grant us the courage to imagine beyond our current limitations, to see with your eyes of compassion, and to build bridges where walls have been erected. Help us to create spaces where all your children—regardless of who they love, how they identify, or where they come from—can worship freely, serve boldly, and live authentically.

For those who have been wounded by exclusion, bring healing. For those who have been silenced, restore their voice. For those who have been pushed to the margins, draw them into the centre of your love.

We pray for wisdom in our disagreements, grace in our differences, and unity in our shared commitment to your Gospel of radical inclusion. May this vision of the ACCJ inspire us to transform our existing communities and, when the time is right, to birth new expressions of your church that honour both tradition and progress.

Until that day comes, may we carry this church in our hearts, live its values in our daily lives, and trust that you are already at work, preparing the way for a more just and compassionate tomorrow.

In the name of Christ, who welcomed all and excluded none, we pray. Amen.