"We wish Robinson the best as he seeks to maintain a modest profile by palling around with British celebrities and preaching at Anglican churches in spite of Dr. Williams request that he refrain." -- IRD President James W. Tonkowich

Contact: Loralei Coyle, 202-682-4131, 202-905-6852 cell, lcoyle@TheIRD.org; Radio Interviews: Jeff Walton, jwalton@TheIRD.org; both with Institute on Religion and Democracy

WASHINGTON, July 14 /Christian Newswire/ -- Episcopal Bishop Gene Robinson, fresh from a recently-celebrated same-sex union in his home diocese of New Hampshire, has descended upon Britain for the upcoming Lambeth Conference.

Due to the controversy over his consecration, Robinson was one of a handful of bishops not invited to the conference convened by Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams. Despite this, Robinson has decided to make appearances on the periphery of events and provide what he called a "constant and friendly" reminder of gays in the church.

Taking place every ten years, Lambeth brings together hundreds of bishops from around the Anglican Communion convened by the Archbishop of Canterbury for discussion and common worship. The Associated Press is reporting that more than 200 conservative bishops are boycotting Lambeth because Episcopal leaders who consecrated Robinson will be there.

IRD President Rev. Dr. James W. Tonkowich commented,

"Robinson's presence rather than providing the healing balm that the strife-torn Anglican Communion needs is adding to the instability.

"Robinson's civil union was provocative in its pre-conference timing and his publicity-driven schedule is driving attention towards him and away from the work of the Church.

"We wish Robinson the best as he seeks to maintain a modest profile by palling around with British celebrities and preaching at Anglican churches in spite of Dr. Williams request that he refrain."

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