Crossan's unorthodox views on the Resurrection are already well established in his writings and in the Jesus Seminar, a once prominent body of liberal scholars who used to gain headlines by disputing the Gospels' historicity. But the hosting, promotion and what amounted to an effective endorsement of his teachings - with a glowing introduction by Holy Cross Rector Wes Smedley - reveal an Episcopal diocese that is drifting ever further from orthodoxy.

Yates was forced out of the $20 million parish that once seated 2500 evangelical Episcopalians over the direction the Episcopal Church was headed in ordaining non-celibate gays and lesbians and blessing same sex unions.

Perhaps because Welby has an MBA and is overly qualified in reconciliation techniques, having thrown himself into Nigeria's oil wars with some success, he can now bring all that to the Anglican table in a way that his predecessor could not. Hence Williams' early exit.

Who is surprised to learn that there are gay priests in the Vatican, asked Jim Naughton in a headline at his liberal blog Episcopal Café? "It is common knowledge that punitive attitudes about sexuality and the pressure to keep one's identity hidden can lead to unhealthy behavior. People who hide their identities and engage in these behaviors are open to blackmail. So this news is less shocking than it is predictable.