The Episcopal diocese of Pittsburgh, headed by Bishop Robert W. Duncan Jr., has moved to "distance" itself from its denomination's national leadership by approving a measure that asserts local control over certain theological controversies

Christian Century, Dec 28, 2004

The Episcopal diocese of Pittsburgh, headed by Bishop Robert W. Duncan Jr., has moved to "distance" itself from its denomination's national leadership by approving a measure that asserts local control over certain theological controversies. An amendment to the conservative diocese's constitution states that "local determination will prevail" when diocesan leaders determine the national church has made decisions it deems "contrary to the historic faith and order of the Anglican Communion." The amendment, passed in November, was first proposed in 2003, when some clergy, and laypeople in Pittsburgh were angered by the consecration of a gay bishop and a refusal to outlaw blessings for same-sex unions.