Meaning: In this quote, George Carey, a former Archbishop of Canterbury, reflects on the challenges facing the Anglican communion in the early 2000s. He mentions "incidents" in New Westminster in Canada, the United States, and Sydney that could potentially undermine the unity and coherence of the global Anglican communion. Carey's comments shed light on the complex dynamics within the Anglican Church during a period marked by significant theological and social debates.

The Anglican communion is a worldwide association of churches that are in communion with the Church of England and share a common faith, tradition, and worship. However, the communion has faced internal tensions and disagreements, particularly regarding issues related to human sexuality and the interpretation of scripture. These tensions came to the fore in the early 2000s, leading to debates and divisions within the communion.

One of the incidents mentioned by Carey is the situation in New Westminster, Canada. This likely refers to the decision by the Diocese of New Westminster to bless same-sex unions, a move that sparked controversy and deepened the divide between conservative and liberal factions within the Anglican communion. The issue of same-sex relationships has been a source of significant disagreement within the communion, with some provinces affirming and celebrating LGBTQ+ relationships, while others holding more traditional views on marriage and sexuality.

Carey also alludes to incidents in the United States, likely referencing the consecration of Gene Robinson as the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church in 2003. This historic event further exacerbated the existing fault lines within the communion, with conservative Anglican provinces expressing strong opposition and some even breaking communion with the Episcopal Church over the issue.

Additionally, Carey mentions Sydney as another focal point of concern. The Diocese of Sydney, known for its evangelical and conservative theological stance, has been vocal in its opposition to progressive developments within the Anglican communion, particularly on matters related to human sexuality and the authority of scripture. The diocese's position has contributed to the broader theological and ecclesiastical debates within the communion, reflecting the diverse perspectives held by its member churches.

Carey's warning about these incidents reflects the deep-seated tensions and challenges facing the Anglican communion at the time. The struggle to balance diverse theological perspectives and cultural contexts within a global communion has tested the unity and coherence of the church, leading to heated debates, mutual incomprehension, and at times, fractures within the communion.

The quote also underscores Carey's commitment to maintaining the communion's unity while acknowledging the real and pressing issues that threatened to undermine it. His words capture the complexity of navigating theological diversity within a global communion, where local decisions and actions can have far-reaching implications for the entire body of churches.

In conclusion, George Carey's quote sheds light on the challenges facing the Anglican communion in the early 2000s, particularly related to disputes over human sexuality and the interpretation of scripture. The incidents in New Westminster, the United States, and Sydney highlighted the deep-seated tensions and divisions within the communion, prompting urgent reflection on how to maintain unity amid diversity. Carey's words serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to navigate the complexities of a global communion while addressing pressing theological and social issues.