'Diocese is united over bishop crisis'.

Byline: DEAN VALLER

A LEADING figure in the Coventry diocese has promised it will not be split by plans in America to appoint a homosexual bishop.

The Anglican Church in the United States has been given 17 days to drop its plan to appoint a homosexual bishop, or risk breaking up the centuries- old denomination.

Church leaders from around the world have warned that the ordination of Gene Robinson - an openly gay divorcee - would cause a massive rift in the Communion.

But, in Coventry and Warwickshire, one church leader said the church here remained united, and said the Anglican Church should remain open- minded.

The Rev Mervyn Roberts, diocesan communications officer for Coventry and Warwickshire, said the diocese was united. "There is not a question of division or a split within the diocese."

On the events in America, he said: "I think the Church of England has an important role to play in all of this. Historically we have always embraced differences and part of our strength within the Christian church is to accept diversity and a broad range of theological views."

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CAPTION(S):

ACCEPT DIVERSITY: Mr Roberts