The Rt. Rev. Jon Bruno, bishop of Los Angeles reports on his visit to the conference Way to Emmaus sponsored by Trinity Church, NYC. The focus on mission that unites us gave him new insight into the state of the Anglican Communion. In the Diocesan clergy newsletter, The Angelus, he offers his reflection on the event.
The current climate in the Anglican Episcopal family of churches is described by the internet blogs and some organizations’ websites as anxious, tense and desperate. A ‘reality check’ opportunity in the last days of July found a considerably different encounter taking place, one drenched in the graceful spirit of mutual responsibility, happening in a monastery guest house in El Escorial Spain. Those present were from, of all places, the U.S.A. and Africa. Could it be happening? Yes, it happened, and thanks be to God, mission to a weary world was its focus.
Bishop Bruno hopes that this will be a new model of doing business as a Communion,
“a trademark minus pronouncements and press conferences; not worrying about the perfectly crafted communiqué but liberating us all, big time. People spoke the truth in love. That’s not just a phrase, but an attitude that was displayed in session after session.”
He continues, “I felt so aware of those around me each day. Our small groups became more like prayer cells, not stranger, but pilgrims. They also became a safe place for honesty and clarity. This is so refreshing in this time in our history, when people who are being open are demonized. As Anglicans we claim John 8:32 as our motto, emblazoned on the Compass Rose, albeit in Greek; “The Truth Shall Make You Free!” Maybe we should have multi-language versions to help us own the message.”
Read it all here, at Susan Russell’s blog.
Other coverage on the conference at The Lead from Episcopal Cafe here and here