WINDSOR: LAMBETH COMMISSION ENDS — REPORT TO BE ISSUED OCTOBER 18

Official Press Release — September 10, 2004

The Lambeth Commission on Communion announced today that it is to publish its report in London on Monday, 18th October 2004, at the beginning of the meeting in London of the Joint Standing Committee of the Primates' Meeting and the Anglican Consultative Council.

The announcement follows the Commission's third plenary meeting, which was held this week (6–10 September) in Saint George's House, Windsor Castle.

Archbishop Robin Eames, Chairman of the Commission, said: "The Commission has been greatly challenged in this task and I have been privileged to work with such a dedicated team. I have no doubt that their collective insights and recommendations can and must make a profound and practical impact for good in the life and mission of the Anglican Communion. This has been a labour of love in the faith that Christ is our guide and strength in working for peace and healing."

The Commission was established by the Archbishop of Canterbury in October 2003, following the special meeting of the Primates in London, to make recommendations to the primates of the Anglican Communion on how to maintain the highest degree of communion possible following developments in North America.

The Commission has now concluded its plenary sessions, but work is continuing to be done in the preparation of the report in readiness for its delivery to the Archbishop of Canterbury.

No further statements will be issued by the Commission before the release of its report on 18th October.

The Commission would like to thank the Dean and Chapter of St George's College, Windsor, for their warm hospitality this week.

For full information on the work of the Lambeth Commission on Communion check the website www.anglicancommunion.org

Note to Editors: The phrase 'developments in North America' refers to the election and consecration of Canon Gene Robinson to be the Bishop of New Hampshire in the Episcopal Church (USA), and the decisions of the Diocese of New Hampshire, Canada and the 74th General Convention of the Episcopal Church (USA) to proceed towards the authorization of public Rites of Blessing of Same Sex Unions.

The Joint Standing Committee is made up of the Standing Committee of the Primates' Meeting and the Standing Committee of the Anglican Consultative Council, two of the Instruments of Unity of the Anglican Communion.