The Lambeth Conference: Theology, History, Polity and Purpose - Hardcover

Paul Avis; Benjamin M. Guyer

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0567662314 ISBN 13: 9780567662316

Publisher: Bloomsbury T&T Clark, 2017

Synopsis

Originating in 1867 under the presidency of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Lambeth Conference has proactively shaped the modern world by influencing areas as diverse as the ecumenical movement, post-war international relations, and the spiritual lives of hundreds of millions. More than twenty authors from around the world now detail the historical legacy, theological meaning, and pastoral purpose of the Anglican Communion's decennial councils. The next Lambeth Conference will be crucial for the Anglican Communion, which is currently afflicted by destructive tensions over matters long central to Christian identity, such as the nature of holy orders, the definition of sexual morality, and the scope of ecclesial authority. Whether in supplication or celebration, both nurtured by diverse cultural contexts and furthered by the scope of ecumenical horizons, these essays break new ground. The Lambeth Conference is a faithful testament to generations past, and a spur to the ongoing restoration of Anglican theology and devotion in the present.

About this title

Review:

I commend this book of essays and hope that others will read them carefully as a preparation for further reflection on the Lambeth Conference and its part in the complex web of relationship in the Anglican Communion. - Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury

An excellent examination of the history of the Lambeth Conference and of the role it has played in the life of the Anglican Communion. - --The Church of England Newspaper

This book could hardly be more timely. It is essential reading for Anglicans as we pray, plan and look forward to the Lambeth Conference of 2020. The essays tackle the questions often raised about the Lambeth Conference: its origin; its place alongside the other Instruments of Communion; its purpose and value to the Communion and Church Universal. It also considers what we can learn from earlier meetings of the Lambeth Conference. These issues are addressed historically, theologically, sociologically, and scripturally. A 'must-read' for members of the Lambeth 2020 Design Group, Primates' Task Group, Anglican Consultative Council, and bishops, as well as our theological institutions. Reading this book will inform the contributions of everyone involved in planning and preparing for Lambeth 2020, and help to produce a fruitful Conference. - --The Most Rev. Josiah Idowu-Fearon, Secretary General of the Anglican Communion, St Andrew's House, London, UK

As one of the Instruments of Communion of the Anglican family, the Lambeth Conferences hold a unique and important place; the development of the Communion can be traced through their history and witness. This compilation of essays by Anglican historians, theologians, clergy, lay leaders and an ecumenical partner explores that history, and the activities of the Conferences, with a pungent honesty. This collection is an invaluable resource that I highly commend to those both within and beyond the Anglican Communion, as we continue to foster the unity of the Communion. It is only through an honest examination of our past that we will find our way into a healthy, vibrant future in witness to the Gospel. - --The Rt. Rev. Linda Nicholls, Diocese of Huron, Anglican Church of Canada

About the Author:

Paul Avis is a Chaplain to HM Queen Elizabeth II, and has served as General Secretary of the Church of England's Council for Christian Unity (1998-2011). He is Visiting Professor of Theology at the University of Exeter, UK, and Editor-in-Chief of Ecclesiology. Benjamin M. Guyer is a PhD candidate in the Department of History, University of Kansas, USA.

About this edition

• Publisher: Bloomsbury T&T Clark
• Publication date: 2017
• ISBN 10: 0567662314
• ISBN 13: 9780567662316
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 400
• Editor: Paul Avis, Benjamin M. Guyer