I believe that Bishop Steenson’s decision to leave the Episcopal church and his choice to convert to Roman Catholicism is an important story, and one that needs to be heard. Bishop Steenson graciously agreed to conduct a followup interview, and so on Tuesday morning we sat down again to discuss many topics.

The conversation was far-ranging, again, and included discussion about the Episcopal church’s leadership, the diocese of Rio Grande, strategic action for those still within the Episcopal church, how those who have chosen to leave the Episcopal church are making their decisions about where to go, and of course, the long-standing differences between Protestants and Roman Catholics.

As everyone who reads StandFirm knows, I am a happy [though embattled] Reformed Anglican—I am a Protestant and am glad to be so. I did not seek out Bishop Steenson in order to debate or argue with him about issues, but because I believe that he has a story to tell that is of interest to all Christian believers. I hope that you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed getting to know him a little.

I believe that Christians of all stripes need to wrestle in a healthy manner with these issues, and true ecumenism means being together as much as we are able to on matters of the truth of the Christian gospel, which is The Great Story, and as clear, honest, frank, and loving as we can be about our important differences.