The organizers of Gafcon stepped out in faith, conscious of a call to offer a large gathering to encourage orthodox Anglicans, to reassert our biblical center and history, and to take counsel together recognizing the crossroads we face. But how would 1200 Anglican leaders, mainly from Africa but with a worldwide representation, come together and achieve anything in such a short time. Would the venue at Jerusalem prove a problem or a blessing? And could it all be paid for and travel arranged in time?

I joined the pilgrim throng for the week of Gafcon, and found it, first, an amazing conference. The daily Bible teaching, the conference lectures from speakers like Os Guinness and Bp Michael Nazir-Ali, the workshops and small groups were all of the highest quality. They inspired us in faith and mission.

Second, I found it an amazing fellowship. In small groups for daily Bible study, over meals and on coach journeys, I met brothers and sisters from Africa, Asia, Australia, and Europe and from the USA. It was true fellowship, to spend time with those from different circumstances, and recognize Jesus Christ as our common Lord.

The third feature was the amazing setting. Our daily round included visits to the sites of the Bible: of Jesus’ life, of Old Testament history, of New Testament witness—and it increased the sense of the presence of the Lord.

The positive tone proved disappointing for the press, who filed their “angry conservative” screeds contrary to all the evidence that I could see. This was not a one-issue conference, and the final statement, direct though it is in acknowledging the disappointments that brought Gafcon into being, is remarkable for its statement of Anglican orthodoxy and our commitment to remain in the fellowship where this is acknowledged
Gafcon demonstrated the Gospel heart of the Communion! It is a modern miracle! (www.gafcon.org).

Your Brother in Christ,
Richard Crocker

PS: Thank you to all who have offered congratulations on the news of my appointment as Rector of St James, Newport Beach, CA.