Incredible Hospitality

The laughs and sighs of the many bishops and spouses gathering to register for the Lambeth Conference gave us all a chance to simply relax and be patient, realising God may have some great revelations for us all in the days ahead, starting with the traditional English queue. Old friends embraced, people shook hands and greeted new people with a warmth and sense of solidarity as the queue moved inch by inch. Spouses compared notes, hat boxes were seen in abundance and some just took the opportunity to sit on the grass and wait!

We are here, Lambeth has begun and from the smiles and energy shown yesterday indicates we are ready to pray and work. The opening session was truly a call to prayer.

The experience of being in a diocese here in the UK was an incredible opportunity as well. The days we spent in Southwark were incredible. The greatest joy was in meeting the people, and in particular one 75 year old lay worker who through all the changes and chances of life, is faithful in her worship and service in a parish that has had to make many adjustments over the years.

We come actually more refreshed, after worshipping and learning what our fellow Anglicans are doing in the name of the Lord. I found great similarities as well many challenging ideas to take home with me and with my work with the Compass Rose Society (come see our display in Keynes College.

I sensed a true common experience, even though culture and experiences were different, and a common pledge to be Christ's presence whether in the Mothers' Union or ministries with kids on an estate in busy London.

I look forward to the retreat and the fays ahead with much hope.

Bishop Philip Poole
Canada, President Compass Rose Society

Editors Note: The 'thought for the day' will  be available primarily as a Podcast on this occasion however it is just a transcript.