Sydney diocese may withdraw over gay appointment

The Anglican Archbishop of Sydney has warned that his diocese may withdraw from the worldwide church if a gay British canon is made a bishop.

Canon Jeff John is seeking consecration as the bishop of Reading, and the Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams appears likely to approve the move.

Dr Peter Jensen has been asked whether his diocese is serious about withdrawing from the world church.

"Yes because I think the folk here in Britain have simply underestimated the importance of what they've done," he said.

"Therefore by the time this gets debated in our own synod, I wouldn't be surprised if the synod wished to send a powerful message to the worldwide church about its opinion."