The 2008 Lambeth Conference reached a conclusion today. We ended as we began---with worship. From my experience of talking to people this evening, it seems to me that this conference did not meet anyone's expectations. I think that is, in the end, a good thing.
Participating as an 'American' bishop was difficult. The actions taken by our church, regardless of where one stands, [as well as the actions of Primates who have crossed diocesan boundaries] has clearly put a strain on the communion. The bishops from TEC tried very hard to listen more and talk less. At various points, I personally found it difficult for my voice to be heard or valued. Actually, though, it was a good learning experience for me. I am used to being in a culture and in settings where I have power and authority by virtue of position. For me this experience of, at times, feeling marginalized pales in comparison to what many contend with day to day.
The future of the Anglican Communion depends, in part, upon whether we can claim a renewed sense of what it means to be bishops in communion with each other. The time that we spent together as bishops was invaluable. The daily bible study and indaba discussion groups gave us an opportunity to meet together face to face to discuss our common mission and our deep divisions. What we have to show for these three weeks are stronger relationships and a document which is a narrative of our various indaba group discussions.
This outcome, in my opinion, did not come without significant cost. As bishops, we chose not to exercise our teaching office at this time at this Lambeth Conference. By making this choice, we may have in fact weakened the Lambeth Conference as an Instrument of Unity in the Anglican Communion.
I think, though, it is a price worth paying.
Sean Rowe, Bishop of Northwestern Pennsylvania
