July 20, 2008
It would not be overstating it to say that members of the Lambeth Conference awoke early this morning with an air of excitement. After a quick breakfast, over 1300 people (Imagine the logistics!) boarded coaches as we headed with most of the bishops vested in cassocks, to robe for the opening service of the Lambeth Conference in historic Canterbury Cathedral. We are deeply aware that some of our number have chosen not to attend the Conference. They are missed and we are diminished by their absence.
The precincts were accessible only by invitation. It was somewhat eerie to walk down the road immediately in front of the ornate and ancient west entrance with streets filled by police security, Canterbury volunteers (they have been marvelous helpers) and people protesting one thing or another in virtual silence, a far cry from the hustle and bustle of previous visits. The protesters could show us signs expressing their concerns but were prevented from verbally making their points to us, as they have on other occasions. Through the large wooden doors we made our way into the area immediately in front of the awe-inspiring cathedral structure, past the west doors and into the Crypt area, which is large enough to handle some 700 people vesting for this service easily. After an hour or so of standing we were guided in processions by the Cathedral vergers in the longest procession in which I personally have ever been involved. I believe it took over 20 minutes for all of us to enter. The opening hymn, “We sing a love that sets all people free”, set to the familiar tune “Woodlands”, filled the cathedral as bishops, spouses, invited guests and dignitaries, including the former Archbishop of Canterbury George Carey, joined the stunning Cathedral Choir in offering praise to the Lord of all. The service featured the languages of the Anglican Communion with drums, African music set to Latin words (quite a feat), a stunning gospel procession led by the Melanesian Brothers and Sisters with the gospel carried in a small boat, a wonderful sermon offered `by the Bishop of Colombo ( Sri Lanka) and rousing music. It was a magnificent offering to God.
As we sang I was aware that different cultures, different theologies, different economic backgrounds, different languages and different genders joined in harmony to make a joyful noise unto the Lord. Here was the Anglican Communion at prayer and worship together in one place celebrating our common love of Jesus! The clear treble sound of the boy’s choir, with the expertise of the other choral sections, lifted our hearts in praise of the Lord. The service, which is available for viewing on the web, is well worth the time to witness this historic gathering. To say that this service was moving would be to understate the obvious. Here, in a cathedral which has witnessed reformations, murders, and wars; in a place where some of the giants on whose shoulders we now stand proclaimed the faith in their time and now are buried; where prayers have been offered for some 1400 years, we in our turn worshipped with the episcopal representatives of the Anglican Communion.
Extraordinary and humbling!
+Philip Poole
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