The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has strongly opposed the election of Rt. Rev. Cherry Vann, an openly lesbian cleric, as the Archbishop of Wales.
The church described the development as a serious departure from biblical teaching and a threat to the unity of the global Anglican Communion.
Contained in a statement signed by the Primate of the church, The Most Rev’d Henry Ndukuba, it said the election signaled spiritual decadence and an outright abandonment of the faith once delivered to the saints.
According to the statement, the church stated that Bishop Vann’s elevation undermines the mission and credibility of the Anglican Church worldwide, stating that it could greatly affect how the church is perceived.
Ndukuba also warned that the development could hinder evangelism and mission efforts of the church.
He drew parallels between Vann’s election and the tenure of Most Rev. Katherine Jefferts Schori, former Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church in the United States (2006–2015), who faced similar criticism from conservative Anglicans for her progressive views.
Citing 2 Timothy 4:3–4, the primate stated that the election of is a clear revelation that many who claim to be members of the body of Christ cannot endure sound doctrine.
The Church of Nigeria warned Wales that its spiritual relevance is at risk if it fails to repent and return to biblical teachings.
It further urged all Anglicans across the globe to reject “rebels” and “apostates,” and rather align with conservative Anglican groups like the Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON), which uphold traditional scriptural values.
“The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) condemns, unequivocally rejects, and will not recognize the election of Rt. Rev. Cherry Vann as Archbishop of Wales.
“We believe that our Lord Jesus Christ will build His Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. We should hold them in our prayers with a clear message that hope lies only in true repentance and godliness. Otherwise, this Church will lose complete relevance in the divine scheme for the people of Wales, and the leaders in compromise shall not be spared in the time of judgment,” the statement read in part.
