In the wake of a coordinated misinformation campaign by the Brazilian Province (IEAB) on the international stage and facing legal threats that endanger its mission and assets, the Standing Committee of the Diocese of Recife has issued a statement affirming its identity, dignity, and rights. This resolution was unanimously approved following a meeting on October 30th.
Statement of Identity and Commitment
The Diocese of Recife, with a history spanning 32 years, has remained steadfast in its adherence to the Word of God and its teachings. Despite facing numerous challenges, the diocese has upheld the vision of the early Anglican missionaries in Brazil. It is a legally recognized entity under Brazilian law, governed by its Social Statutes and Diocesan Canons, and engages in a participatory process that includes its parishes, church plants, social projects, clergy, and approximately 5,000 members.
The diocese enjoys respect and recognition from the State, civil society, and other Christian churches due to its commitment to doctrine, ethics, and the integrity of its members. The diocese is characterized by transparency and honesty, rejecting any notion of a “hidden agenda.”
Historical Context and Recent Developments
Three years ago, the Diocese of Recife came under the authority of the Anglican Church of the Southern Cone of America, led by the Most Reverend Gregory J. Venables, following illegal acts and persecution from the Brazilian Province. This period of conflict included the wrongful deposition of the diocesan bishop, the excommunication of 32 clergy without due process, and the exclusion of 95% of the diocese’s members from a synod convened irregularly by the Brazilian Province. The disputes between the Diocese of Recife and the Episcopal Anglican Church of Brazil are deeply rooted in doctrinal and ethical differences, not merely personal disagreements.
Previously, the diocese had enacted a ban on the ordination of practicing homosexuals and those endorsing homosexual practices, while simultaneously condemning homophobia. The diocese also aligned itself with other Anglican provinces, dioceses, and institutions that adhere to biblical teaching, the apostolic tradition, and the resolutions of the Lambeth Conferences. Notably, at the Lambeth Conference of 1998, Bishop Cavalcanti was the sole Brazilian delegate to support Resolution 1.10 on Human Sexuality, and in 2004, participated in a confirmation rite in Akron, Ohio, with broad support from diocesan leadership.
Response to Attacks and Legal Challenges
Throughout the ongoing conflict, the Diocese of Recife has maintained a focus on principled debate rather than personal attacks. However, the Brazilian Province, allied with The Episcopal Church (TEC) in the USA, has engaged in personal attacks intended to distract from the substantive issues and undermine international support for the diocese’s cause. In response, the diocese has had to enlist legal representation in both Brazil and the UK to counter defamatory actions.
Bishop Robinson Cavalcanti, who has been a prominent figure for over three decades as a professor, author, and participant in various theological and evangelical movements, faces unjust attacks. His extensive background includes leadership roles in the ABU (Brazilian equivalent of IFES), the Latin American Theological Fraternity (FTL), the Lausanne Movement, the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA), and EFAC. After 11 years as bishop, he has the right to request the appointment of Suffragan bishops to support the diocese’s missionary efforts.
Appeal for Support
The Diocese of Recife has resisted the pressures of liberal revisionism and has firmly rejected the notion of becoming a “continuing church.” It remains committed to the global Anglican Communion and its orthodox expressions, including GAFCON and the Jerusalem Declaration.
Currently, the diocese faces severe challenges as the Brazilian Province, following precedents set by allies in the USA and Canada, has initiated legal action seeking to annul the diocese’s legal identity and seize key properties, including the Cathedral and Diocesan Central Office. This legal battle threatens the diocese’s mission and social outreach, imposing significant financial and emotional strain.
The Diocese of Recife calls upon global Anglican leaders, GAFCON’s Primate’s Council, and orthodox supporters to offer spiritual, moral, and financial support. This appeal is crucial to help the diocese navigate this new chapter of its ongoing struggle and fulfill its responsibilities entrusted by the Lord of the Church.
For further information and updates, please visit the Diocese of Recife’s official channels and support their efforts as they continue to defend their mission and uphold their commitments.