Japan Synod votes to ordain women

Contributed by The Rev. Timothy M. Nakayama

The General Synod of the Nippon Sei Ko Kai, held in Tokyo, May 28, 29, 1998 approved the Ordination of Women to the Priesthood without too much note or comment. The vote of the House of Bishops was 10 for and 1 against. The House of Delegates voted 37 for and 17 against.

During the time when General Synod meets, the House of Bishops elects the Primate for a two year term. John Makoto Takeda, Bishop of Tokyo, was elected on the first ballot. Joseph Noriaki Iida, Bishop of Kyushu, served as acting Primate after the death of Bishop James T. Yashiro of the diocese of Kita Kanto, who had been re-elected at General Synod two years ago.