This week, members of the Anglican Alliance have been meeting in Wells. The international board, which is made up of members from every continent in the world, meet once a year in person and this year it was decided the group should come together in Wells. Included among their number is the Most Revd Albert Chama, from Zambia who is Chair of the Alliance.
Bishop Michael who is a Vice Chair of the group said, “It’s like the world has come to Wells. It is astonishing they are talking about things that are making a colossal difference to people’s lives. We’ve also been telling each other stories about the amazing difference that churches can make.”
The Anglican Alliance is grounded in the Anglican Five Marks of Mission, which include responding to human need and caring for the most vulnerable, challenging and changing the unjust structures of the world, and sustaining and renewing the life of the earth. It is mandated to bring together development, relief and advocacy work across the Anglican Communion. It connects with churches and agencies right across the Anglican Communion. It belongs to everyone in the worldwide Anglican family committed to working for a world free of poverty and injustice.
The group also had the opportunity to share stories about the difference churches around the world are making. One member shared how they had been supporting the climate justice group in Malawi and this had resulted in them being able to lead on the banning of single use plastics in Malawi. They were later able to ensure the government of the country held true to that decision.
The Anglican Alliance is also working to support the Communion Forest initiative which was launched at the Lambeth Conference last year. Since its launch, the Communion Forest team, has focused on connecting, equipping and inspiring church involvement across the Communion through:
- Action: Growing the Communion Forest together, by developing or starting an activity.
- Appreciation: Expressing gratitude and concern for God’s wonderful creation, weaving creation care into the spiritual life of the Church.
- Advocacy: Speaking out and campaigning for environmental justice, including protecting forests and other eco-systems.
- Awareness: Sharing inspiring stories and contributing to the growing Communion Forest community.
Find out more online about the work of the Anglican Alliance.