The Times of London reports :
A worldwide Anglican schism now seems inevitable after Episcopal bishops in the United States today backed the consecration of gay bishops. Episcopal bishops approved a resolution passed earlier this week by the laity and clergy which allows partnered gays full access to ordination. The Archbishop of Canterbury expressed regret over a decision by Anglicans in the US that represents a blow to his hopes for Church unity. They took the step towards schism in spite of a plea by Dr Rowan Williams, who addressed the General Convention in Anaheim, California, last week. The new resolution effectively overturns the moratoria on same-sex blessings and gay consecrations agreed by the last General Convention of The Episcopal Church in 2006.