The Church of England General Synod has continued upon its path towards the creation of women bishops this week, as a motion calling for the exploration of practical and legislative arrangements of admitting women bishops to the episcopate was passed by a large majority.

The motion was accepted with three main amendments from the original version, and it took a four-hour debate by the Synod to come to its conclusion on the matter.

The move will now invite dioceses, deaneries and parishes “to continue serious debate and reflection on the theological, practical, ecumenical and missiological aspects of the issue” of ordaining women bishops.

In addition, the proposals will call for the formation of a legislative drafting group, “which will aim to include a significant representation of women," charged with "preparing the draft measure and amending canon necessary to remove the legal obstacles to the consecration of women to the office of bishop.”