The Anglican Communion, as it stands today, is not a unified body but rather a complex network of coalitions. The once-central role of Lambeth and the Archbishop of Canterbury has waned, with Archbishop Justin Welby inheriting a fragmented communion that has struggled to maintain cohesion. The current state of the Communion reflects a shift from a singular entity to a collection of diverse coalitions, each with its own agenda and priorities.
Diminished Role of Lambeth
Historically, Lambeth was envisioned as the heart of the Anglican Communion, serving as the central authority in defining and maintaining unity. However, its influence has significantly diminished. Archbishop Welby, despite his efforts, faces an uphill battle in trying to heal divisions that have become deeply entrenched. The structures and instruments of communion that once served as the governing center are now viewed as largely irrelevant in addressing the pressing issues facing the Communion.
From Communion to Coalitions
The crumbling of a common faith within the Anglican Communion has led to the formation of various coalitions rather than a cohesive body. The traditional Anglican understanding of a communion of autonomous churches united by a shared faith has been replaced by a more fragmented reality. This shift reflects broader theological disagreements and the inability to maintain a unified doctrine.
Key coalitions include:
- GAFCON: A prominent theological coalition primarily led by African churches but also supported by Western allies. GAFCON has emerged as a significant force advocating for orthodox Anglican beliefs in the face of perceived liberal drift in other parts of the Communion.
- The Global South: This network represents a geographical coalition rather than a strictly theological one. While it remains influential, its activity on the global stage is less pronounced compared to GAFCON. The Global South includes regions such as the Middle East and Southeast Asia, where local challenges shape their approach to Anglicanism.
- TEC and its Allies: The Episcopal Church (TEC) is attempting to develop its own coalition, though it remains cautious about its direction due to concerns over northern dominance. The Anglican Church of Southern Africa (ACSA) is a key member within this coalition, which is heavily influenced by TEC’s funding and support.
- Latin America: In this region, the Southern Cone and Recife are aligned with GAFCON, while other parts of Latin America are more connected with the TEC coalition, reflecting the influence of TEC in the area.
- North America: In the United States, the official Anglican body is TEC, which is experiencing a decline in numbers and legal setbacks. Conversely, the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) continues to grow and fight for its position, with potential for increased alignment with global orthodox coalitions.
Challenges and Future Prospects
The Anglican Communion’s current state is marked by significant theological diversity and fragmentation. The lack of a common theological framework has led to a situation where one group may not recognize the other as genuinely Christian. This fragmentation underscores the need for a renewed focus on theological unity and the formation of coalitions based on shared beliefs rather than mere organizational structures.
Hope for the Future
Despite the challenges, there are signs of hope:
- Orthodox Witness in the TEC Fold: Greg Brewer of Central Florida, maintaining orthodox beliefs within TEC, represents a beacon of hope for those seeking to uphold traditional Anglican values within a more liberal context.
- ACNA’s Progress: Recent court rulings have been favorable to ACNA, providing encouragement and strengthening its position as a significant player in the global Anglican landscape.
- Southeast Asia and South Asia: While Southeast Asia remains marginal in the global Communion, regions like Singapore are advancing their missions. South Asia, with its large Anglican populations in India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, faces the challenge of forming coalitions that can bridge orthodoxy and mutual benefit.
The Role of the Church of England
The Church of England occupies a unique position within the Anglican Communion. Its historical and cultural links to the global Communion offer a platform for fostering relationships and supporting coalitions. England’s approach, characterized by skepticism, creativity, and loyalty, plays a crucial role in maintaining perspective and balance within the Communion.
Moving Forward
To navigate the current fragmentation, there is a need for missionary entrepreneurs who can mobilize resources and support for the church’s mission. These leaders must be recognized and encouraged within a framework that supports their efforts while maintaining diverse ministries. Although the Communion may not achieve full orthodoxy, a network of orthodox coalitions can provide a functional and effective alternative, preserving essential aspects of Anglican identity and mission.
In summary, the Anglican Communion today is characterized by its transition from a unified body to a network of coalitions. While challenges persist, there are opportunities for renewal and growth through a focus on shared theological commitments and effective coalition-building.