Monday, July 21, 2008

The shindig begins with nerves and half-naked dancers

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/faith/article4369346.ece

[Times Online] 21 Jul 2008--The 14th Lambeth Conference had everything befitting a party that has been ten years in the planning: bouncers, paparazzi, an international guest list of thousands, in Canterbury Cathedral the most well-established venue in the city, world-renowned musicians and even half-naked dancers.

It also had everything you might expect at an awkward family party: unspoken feuds, some people refusing the invitation, others not asked to come, the host looking a little nervous and speeches entreating everyone to get along.

After three days on retreat, 600 bishops, archbishops and their wives poured into the 1,400-year-old cathedral to celebrate the start of the conference.

For the first time they processed in without the banners of their provinces and in random order – so those defying their primates’ orders by attending could remain incognito. A small number of bishops snubbed the invitation, going to rival services or returning home to their own dioceses.

Related Articles:
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/bishops-back-plea-for-inclusive-communion-872813.html
Bishops back plea for 'inclusive communion' - Independent
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7516497.stm
Will the conference bring communion? - BBC News
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/faith/article4368209.ece
Bishops says divided Church should turn to cricket - Times Online

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