Meeting in the International Study Centre of Canterbury Cathedral, the JSC - comprised of members from Africa, India, Asia, the Middle East, the UK, the USA, New Zealand and the West Indies - has reviewed much of the work currently being undertaken in the Anglican Communion.
Reports from staff members and those who serve the official networks of our Communion speak of a church whose heart is solid and whose concerns and actions are making a difference to those in today’s world eager to hear the good news of the Gospel of Christ.
We were made to feel welcome as we worshipped in the historic Cathedral. We were also made very much aware of the seriousness of the situation confronting the Anglican Communion. We were informed of the initial work of the Lambeth Commission chaired by Archbishop Eames, and ask for the continuing prayers of the Communion in this regard.
Members of the Joint Standing Commitee outside
Canterbury Cathedral (Rosenthal/Anglican World)
At the same time we were encouraged to see that financial contributions from all the member Churches are in line with budget expectations, and that the networks and commissions of the Anglican Communion are operating effectively. Although we face serious financial difficulties, we are conscious of the sacrificial giving of many people and Churches in the Anglican Communion. Of special note is the ongoing work of the Family Network and the Women’s Network as they courageously attempt to identify concerns that need to be addressed, as well as the deep wounds felt by people for whom the Peace and Justice Network seeks to bring support and hope. The Communion is fully committed to endeavours in theological education, inter-faith work and continuing our ecumenical dialogues, especially in light of the challenges we face as a Communion over issues that cause great concern for some and hope for others, with no intention of trying to cloak the reality of what is before us.
In times of conflict and debate, we call on those entrusted with leadership within the family to carry out their own mission in a spirit of reconciliation, honesty and openness.
We were able to plan some new developments in the field of telecommunications. The challenge of planning the 2005 Anglican Consultative Council as well as the Anglican Gathering 2008 and the Lambeth Conference in South Africa were also before us. We expressed gratitude and confidence in the opportunities presented by the opening of St. Andrew’s House in London as the new headquarters for the Anglican Communion Office.
Jolly Babirukamu, ACC member from Uganda walks with
Archbishop Rowan Williams (Rosenthal/Anglican World)
A process has been established for the appointment of a new Secretary General in succession to the Revd Canon John L. Peterson, who completes his term at the end of this year.
We thank God for the sacrificial work being done in our collective name by so many in so many places and for some many reasons and needs. It is our hope that we can use this Lenten season as one to give thanks for the past, pray for the present and offer to God our dreams and aspirations for what is to come. We urge the faithful throughout the Communion to own the work being done and assist in all ways imaginable to see it strengthened in the coming years.
Canterbury
5 March 2004