Joyful time at Lambeth

What a tremendous honor and pleasure it’s been to speak on the subject of evangelism at the Lambeth Conference being held here in Canterbury, England.
I know that most people think the “news story” here is about divisive controversies over sexuality, but my sense is that the real news story is very different. There is a humble spirit here, a loving atmosphere, a deep spirituality centered in Bible study, worship, and prayer, and a strong desire to move beyond internal-institutional matters to substantive mission in our needy world.
In every conversation and gathering I’ve participated in, the spirit has been kind and holy and positive. That sort of good news doesn’t attract the media the way a salacious or pugilistic story does … It will be interesting to see whether the press reports what is actually happening here, or if they need to rewrite the narrative to fit the shape of war-tales they are more accustomed to telling.
My sense is that the quiet, prayerful, and humble patience of Archbishop Rowan Williams is leading the way to better days for the Anglican Communion. It feels like the bishops gathered here are turning a corner together. I feel that I’m witnessing the emergence of something good, beautiful, true, and blessed … Hearts here are sincerely open to the Spirit of God.
Thanks for all who prayed for me regarding my plenary session here tonight. Everything went well, and I look forward to my next two days here.