From 25-30 October 2005, about 120 delegates, representing 20 provinces within the Anglican Communion, from Africa, Asia and Latin America, will be meeting in Egypt for their third Global South Encounter. The Conference will take place at the Red Sea.
We, here in Egypt, are honored and privileged to be hosting this historic gathering of Anglican Archbishops, bishops, priests and laypersons from throughout the Global South. We also believe it will be a special time of encouraging one another, learning from each other, and most importantly, praying together. Our focus will be on "One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church". This Conference is important as it is being held at a critical time in the life of the Anglican Communion.
I warmly welcome the news that Archbishop Rowan Williams has accepted the invitation of the Global South Working Committee and will join us for part of the Conference. This will be his second visit to Egypt and we are most grateful to him for taking the time out of his busy schedule for this occasion.
Throughout the Biblical story, from Abraham to Jesus, Egypt symbolized a divine place of refuge and sanctuary. From the patriarch Abraham going to Egypt during a time of famine, to the tribe of Israel moving to Egypt when there was famine in their land, to the Holy Family escaping Herod to Egypt to protect the Christ child. Egypt symbolized God meeting His people in their time of need. So Egypt in the Scriptures reminds us of God's faithfulness. Our prayer is that during this Encounter, God will provide spiritual refreshment and new ministry vision to all who attend. As we gather by the Red Sea, may we be reminded of the presence of God among us and His unfailing promises.
It is worth mentioning that the first South to South Encounter was held in Limuru, Kenya, 1994 and the second was held in Kuala Lampur in 1997. Today we are excited to welcome all attendees and we encourage them to come to Egypt with a sense of expectation for the presence of God. It is a real honor for us to have this gathering in our land.
The Rt Revd Dr Mouneer Hanna Anis
Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Egypt, North Africa and the Horn of Africa
These posts are by guest authors for Fulcrum