At Last! Church Of England Approves Women Bishops

For the first time in history, the Church of England has approved women to become bishops. The historical change was announced after a ruling by the General Synod which gave approval to legislation when two- thirds majority voted in favor. The change was first rejected by the traditionalist lay members in 2012 although the votes were backed by the Houses of Bishops and Clergy. According to the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, he said he was "delighted" by the latest development but some opponents were not convinced by the 'preferential allowance' granted to the women. The important votes in the house of Laity were 152 in favour, 45 against, and there were five abstentions, while in November 2012 the change was stopped by just six votes cast by the lay members. In the house of Bishops, 37 were in favour, two against, and there was one abstention. The House of Clergy voted 162 in favour, 25 against and there were four abstentions. The first women bishops could be announced and ordained by next year.