Two good reads about the work of ++Justin Welby as Archbishop of Canterbury.
First, he has used his office to call together Christian leaders from the Middle East. Read Lambeth's press release here. (It is at best ironic that the Coptic Orthodox Church UK's version, here, is in black and white). If the office of ABC means anything, surely it is this kind of ecumenical work when one patriarchate works with other patriarchates ...*
Secondly, Psephizo offers a resume of Andrew Atherstone's biography of ++Justin, Risk-taker and Reconciler, under the heading, What kind of leader is Justin Welby.
*OK, I am going to be perverse and ask, When is the next meeting of Anglican primates?
POSTSCRIPT Are you over 20 and under the age of 35? ++Justin has a job for you to do! Be sure to invest in some kneepads.
4 comments:
Thanks for the mention. I think his comment about the situation in the Middle East was profound--great to see him locating it theological with a verse from Revelation (1.9)
Perhaps after he has finished visiting all the different regions?
I'll make that a 'Yes!' to you Ian, and a 'Yes, that seems likely' to you Jean.
re Andrew's comment: I guess that the ABC has to be 'Mr Nice Guy on his first time around. It may not be until he had settled after meeting all the Primates (who will receive him) that he will properly be able to assess their true intentions towards koinonia in the Communion. At least he has experience of the G.S. environment, upon which he can make his own mind up.
Regarding his statement about the Middle-East situation, he probably understands - better than most Anglican Primates - the importance of oil to everyone in the area. He has actually worked with it. It's amazing how politics, and even religion, can be profoundly affected by where oil is located. The situation will need more Oil of Unction to heal this problem.
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