With this Gathering of Primates I approach the tenth anniversary of my appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury. It has been an eventful ten years! My role as President of the Anglican Communion has brought me into close contact with my fellow Archbishops from around the world and it has been a particular joy for Eileen and myself to host this year’s Primates Meeting in the beautiful Kanuga Episcopal Center in North Carolina.

Some of my brother Primates work, live and witness in the most dire and even hostile settings. The need for such gatherings becomes clearer each time we meet and, indeed, the wide range of concerns addressed during our time together has made us all aware how crucial is our inter-dependence in such a fast changing world.

This has been one of the most successful gatherings in recent years. We have spoken frankly to one another and as a result our unity has deepened. We have focussed our attention on how we may strengthen our Communion and we have agreed an Action Plan which we shall take forward with energy.

We are so grateful for all those in our Communion who have prayed for us this week. Your prayers have been answered and you can count on our servant leadership in the days ahead. It is my hope that every congregation in every Province will participate fully in the forthcoming Nine Days of Prayer between the Ascension and Pentecost.

With my love and warm regards

The Most Revd George Carey
Archbishop of Canterbury