Archdiocese withdraws from Oklahoma Conference of Churches

In a letter dated Sept. 19, 2018, Archbishop Coakley withdrew the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City from the Oklahoma Conference of Churches.

In the letter, he stated: 
 
"It is with sincere regret that by this letter I am withdrawing the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City from the Oklahoma Council of Churches, effective immediately.
 
I have been concerned in recent months by a change of tone within the day-to-day leadership of the organization. The shift has moved from what I would describe as ecumenism and Christian witness to secular politics. The ecumenical spirit is willing to embrace a "both/and" attitude, whereas politics thrives on creating an "either/or" dichotomy.
 
I will continue to reaffirm our commitment to the Theological Statements of OCC as they exist at the time of our leaving. We continue to be committed to ecumenical and interfaith exchanges and dialogue."