Lambeth: One Mission, Many Voices
As you read this, the Lambeth Conference has come to an end. There will be much to reflect on and share when we return. But let me try to give you a sense of the conference and of the church in this historic place.
Our first days in England were spent in the historic Diocese of Chichester in the south, not far from the English Channel, as part of a Hospitality Initiative designed to begin building relationships prior to the Conference itself.
We were warmly welcomed and embarked on an itinerary that filled four days with visits to churches and gardens in the mostly rural Uckfield Deanery, including the opportunity to preach at Holy Cross Church on Sunday.
We met with numerous groups, most often in small social settings. We enjoyed telling about our own diocese and The Episcopal Church while listening and learning about their local congregations and practices. People were distinctly positive and eager to learn, even if not in agreement on ordaining women Bishops and the consecration of the Bishop of New Hampshire. Those items, I should note, did not in any way dominate the conversations. The overall structure, governance, and practices of our Church in support of mission were the favorite and engaging topic.
The actual Conference began with two days of training for those of us leading daily Bible study and conversation groups. The spirit was more amiable and encouraging than I had expected, and the diversity exceeded expectations as well. We focused on every person having a voice and the conference not being heavily managed or controlled. As you can imagine, with more languages than I can name right now and wide-ranging cultural norms around group discussions, facilitating active involvement and calling forth all voices was a unique challenge.
Each day began early with the Holy Eucharist, followed by unhurried yet invigorating Bible study. Archbishop Rowan Williams led the Bishops’ two day retreat in Canterbury Cathedral. For those of us who have never experienced this historically magnificent setting, it was overwhelmingly poignant in content and sense of community.
You have been in my prayers and it is with an undeniably sinful pride that I have spoken about our diocese. In small settings I have shown a five minute video, edited from our endowment campaign presentation, that has been exceptionally well received.
Your prayers have been appreciated during these days of concentrated Communion efforts to deepen our relationship and strengthen our Mission. May God bless and guide our efforts to reflect Jesus in spirit and presence.
