During the Lambeth Conferences of 1988 and 1998 the role of the Primates within the Anglican Communion was discussed. Resolutions proposed that the possibilities for Primates acting more collegially should be examined. Primates continue to contribute to this debate publicly and privately.

I welcome the proposals in the book 'To Mend the Net' by Archbishop Gomez and Presiding Bishop Sinclair as a serious contribution to that debate. 'To Mend the Net' will also be studied by the new Inter-Anglican Doctrinal Commission chaired by Bishop Professor Stephen Sykes. The mending of the net referred to in this book is an apostolic task and we mend nets best when we are faithful to the gospel and in step with one another. This and other useful contributions will assist the Primates in developing, collegially, their role within the Anglican Communion.

Members of the Anglican Communion should heed that while much may be gained by healthy debate in 'communion' much will be lost by action which challenges lawful authority in the body of Christ.