Why the Network Matters
People sometimes ask me what the Network does and why it matters. Those are good questions—and we have good answers. The way we answer them also captures much of what God continues to do through us as we begin our fifth year of ministry.
Here are some of the highlights:
As the staff of Bishop Robert Duncan, our moderator and the moderator of the Common Cause movement, it is our job to help make the Common Cause Partnership a concrete reality. That includes organizing and supporting meetings of the Common Cause Council of Bishops, the elected officers of Common Cause, and many other gatherings and initiatives. Network affiliated dioceses and parishes are also represented at Common Cause meetings by the Network.
Common Cause is clearly our future. As we work with many others to speed its success, we continue to provide nuts and bolts support services, like a pension plan and property and liability insurance to parishes and others who need them.
We regularly visit with parishes and dioceses around the country, providing support, guidance and visible connection between Anglicans. Through our Chancellor, Mr. Wicks Stephens, we provide advice to those forced to make decisions with legal consequences.
Our Ministry Development Program has shepherded 20 men and women to ordination since we took over its work two years ago. A further 22 are currently discerning a call.
In the midst of all of this, the Network has incubated a thriving suite of ministry initiatives like the Anglican Relief and Development Fund, The Titus Institute for Church Planting, Anglican Global Mission Partners, Young Anglicans, and regional evangelism conferences. As these ministries mature, we have been able to offer them to the whole movement.
There is no question that there is more to do in the days ahead. God is building a biblical, missionary and united Anglicanism in North America. We at the Network are proud to contribute to that great work, especially as the administrative support for the Common Cause Partnership.
Yours in Christ,
The Rev. Canon Daryl Fenton
Chief Operating Officer
Anglican Communion Network