Angered by these charges the laity, including senior wardens from several orthodox parishes, fired back a letter to the clergy saying that such "statements as these only increase the tensions of a divided church."

"My wife and I made a decision to serve God which led to five decisions about money. We would not change our lifestyle (not spend money on us). We would take no salary, (work for Saddleback church for free); Give back every speaking fee for the last 5 years; Set up a foundation with three parts - Mercy, including HIV; Equipping - training next generation and a Peace project. We would also institute a reverse tithe. Each year since we were married we would give 1% or more.

"The Global South is committed to provide our recognition, energy, prayers and experience to the Networks in the USA and Canada, the Convocation of Nigerian Anglicans in the USA, those who make Common Cause and the Missionary District that is gathering congregations that circumstances have pressed out of ECUSA," he said.

"The need to protect oneself is built on money coming into the country and giving condoms to school children. The message here is 'go try them.' But how do you stop yourself? You had better not wake up passion in young people. Condoms wake up your passions and you must face the consequences. We, in the church say we should abstain and keep yourself pure before marriage. You cannot die if you don't go for sex. We teach our people respect for the opposite sex.