Lambeth Format to Encourage Conversation, Not Resolution

May 20, 2008

Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori and the Rev. Ian Douglas, a member of the Lambeth Conference Design Group, described the international conference for bishops in England this summer as a new way of addressing difficult issues.

Bishop Jefferts Schori and Prof. Douglas, professor of world mission at Episcopal Divinity School, gave statements and took questions from reporters during a press conference broadcast live over the internet on May 20.

The conference, scheduled for July 16-Aug. 3, will be unlike any previous Lambeth gathering. It is not set up for parliamentary-style debate and is not designed to produce legislation or resolutions, the two explained.

“The parliamentary system as it is generally practiced in the West produces legislative winners and losers,” Bishop Jefferts Schori said. She added that she was hopeful for the conference because of its emphasis on a traditional understanding of conversation. “Conversation entered into deeply and fully leads to conversion and hope,” she noted. the rest

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