The Delphi Technique…just one more reason not to attend the Primates Meeting

from Stand Firm by Matt Kennedy

Thanks to Jamesw for this link:

In an interview prior to his departure for the Jan. 25-30 meeting, Archbishop Hiltz explained that the meeting will discuss the nature of the Anglican Communion and the role of its primates, both as a body as well as in their individual provinces. And for the first time since this meeting was established in 1978, discussions will be guided by a facilitator.

“I think [the Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams] is doing his utmost to hold the Communion together,” Archbishop Hiltz told the Anglican Journal.

The 38 primates, representing Anglicans in 164 countries, will be asked to share their thoughts on two questions: What do you think is the most pressing challenge or issue facing the Anglican Communion at this time? What do you think is the most pressing challenge or issue facing your own province?

Rather than seeing this process as an attempt to sidestep the issue of sexuality, which has deeply divided Anglicans, Archbishop Hiltz sees it was a way forward. “If there’s any hope of some sense of renewed relationships with one another, it’s through conversations like these,” he said.

Reports that some primates with more conservative theological views are planning to boycott the meeting “does nothing to model for the church what it means to try and live with difference,” he added. “To simply say, ‘I refuse to come’ is anything but exemplary of the office and ministry to which we are called...more”

Wonderful. Just what the communion needs...a facilitated discussion directed by a "facilitator" of the ACO's choosing. As Jamesw (linked above) correctly points out:

Any suggestion that the upcoming Primates meeting is meant to be a serious conversation between the primates with a view to listening and discerning a way forward for the Communion can now be safely put to rest. This is purely and simply yet another manipulative, political act by Rowan Williams, and should be avoided at all costs.