"If his consecration proceeds, we recognise that we have reached a crucial and critical point in the life of the Anglican Communion and we have had to conclude that the future of the Communion itself will be put in jeopardy. In this case, the ministry of this one bishop will not be recognised by most of the Anglican world,and many provinces are likely to consider themselves to be out of Communion with the Episcopal Church (USA).

Two years ago, church member Pat Broderick first had the idea to hold a gathering at a city park but was subsequently denied access by the park manager because the church wanted to play contemporary Christian music.

"It was just our way of giving back to the community and letting them know we were down the street if anybody wanted any help or anything like that," said Broderick.

However Coalition conservatives are set on amending the bill, which passed the Senate 43 votes to 12 last week, without change. If they manage to get enough support for their changes around freedom of religion and conscience the bill will have to return to the Senate.

"A statement made by Bishop Jack Iker to his Annual Convention on November 4, 2017, is untrue, and -- because it seems to have gained wide circulation -- I believe I need to correct the record publicly. Because I am also Archbishop Emeritus, I also think a brief comment is appropriate.