October 25, 2021:
Archbishop Beach sent the following pastoral statement to the ACNA College of Bishops:
Earlier this year, your College of Bishops had extended meetings on the position of the Church regarding the COVID vaccinations. Through strong scholarship and concerted prayer, it was agreed that the ethical and moral concerns with the COVID vaccines are adiaphoric; that is, the scriptures do not speak in a manner that dictate a definitive moral or ethical position. Therefore, many bishops have encouraged, and themselves received, the COVID vaccination. Conversely, many have determined that their conscience does not allow for reception of this vaccine for a variety of reasons; rooted in their convictions from Holy Scripture, ancient tradition, and conscience.
However, this determination by the Church can not be used to justify or condone forced compliance to “mandatory” vaccinations by any institution. Whether it be employers, state or federal governments, or the US Armed Forces, no one should be compelled to receive the vaccine should they hold to a reasonable and conscientious objection. The ‘right of conscience’ is clearly understood as our first protected right in the Constitution and Bill of Rights. “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof…”
Our own Jurisdiction of the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy has been busy assisting those serving in our Armed Forces who have sincerely held conscientious objections to this vaccination. Citing both constitutional rights and the precedent of law (Religious Freedom Restoration Act), Anglican Chaplains are diligently working to aid those serving our nation in uniform who seek a religious accommodation from recent directives dictating forced vaccinations. Too, I wish to echo our support of all men and women who seek similar accommodations in all sectors of our society. We encourage those so inclined to receive the COVID vaccination, and continuing boosters, to continue to get their vaccinations. But, the Anglican Church in North America firmly supports those whose conscious does not permit them to be vaccinated for reasons of faith and religious conviction.
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