Anglican church could be set for split

The Anglican Church is set for a major split on the issue of homosexuality, as church leaders meeting in Newry have called on the church in the US and Canada to withdraw from the Anglican group of churches.

They have issued the call amid controversy over the ordination of the first openly gay Anglican bishop in the United States.

Anglican leaders in Newry called for a moratorium on the blessing of same-sex unions.

Church spokesman Archbishop Peter Carnley from Perth, Australia said the meeting has confirmed traditional Anglican views.