wfn.org | Archbishop of Canterbury offers spiritual advice

[a.whitefield@quest.org.uk]

July 21, 1997
ANGLICAN COMMUNION NEWS SERVICE
Canon Jim Rosenthal, Director of Communications
Anglican Communion Office
London, England

ACC 1290 

Archbishop of Canterbury offers spiritual advice to Episcopalians

By Mary Lee B. Simpson

(ACNS) PHILADELPHIA (July 20, 1997) - Archbishop of Canterbury George
Carey offered words of spiritual wisdom to nearly 9,000 Episcopalians as
deputies and bishops concluded their first week of legislative
deliberations. 
    "Remember that no matter how much you think you are dealing with
issues, you are not; you are always dealing with people," Carey said
during Saturday afternoon's Eucharist and United Thank Offering
in-gathering. "And remember, as you look on people with whom you
disagree, that they are in the image of God."
    He also reminded the congregation the great heresy is the failure to
live and work together as Christians when we disagree.    "We dare not,
must not, should not, allow any issue - however personally sacred to us
- divide the church of God."
    Carey described the bitter divisions and deep entrenchment in the
Church of England as perhaps God's reminder that our mission is more
important than the paltry things that divide us.
    "We have lobbed verses of scripture, like hand grenades, into camps
of others convinced that we only have the truth," Carey said. "So it is
with you and the future of the Episcopal Church you carry in the womb of
this convention."
    Carey said he loves the infectious warmth and excitement 
Episcopalians have for their mission. "Whatever the challenges or the
tensions which arise from time to time, I know that the Episcopal Church
will be there in the thick of things facing up to it all, "he said.
    "Never think that I am one of those who is knocking your church,"
Carey said. "The Anglican Communion is reliant upon your energy, your
vision and your extraordinary generosity. That adds a richness which is
unique, and I want you to know how deeply I appreciate that."
    Following the United Thank Offering in-gathering, Carey reminded the
congregation their presiding bishop is deeply loved throughout the
worldwide church and his ministry of solidarity has been profoundly
effective." 
    In recognition of his contributions to the Anglican Communion, Carey
gave the presiding bishop an inscribed replica of a 1588 silver plate
retrieved from a Spanish Armada ship sunk off the coast of England
during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.
    Carey also had some words of wisdom for a new presiding bishop.
    "Enjoy the job. If you don't enjoy it, you shouldn't be doing it,"
he said. "Wear the call with humility. Your leadership is a gift to be
offered to others. You will be buffeted and crucified, but remember,
there is resurrection."

 - Mary Lee Simpson is communications director of the Diocese of
Southwest Virginia.