New Around the Mission

October 19, 2009

Archbishop Visits Coast to Coast

During a recent visit to the US, Archbishop Kolini traveled coast to coast for a wide variety of meetings, worship services and special events. On the west coast, he consecrated the new church building for All Saints Anglican Church in Los Angeles and went on to Pasadena for the consecration of Bishops Todd Hunter, Doc Loomis and Silas Ng.

The Rev. Ben Nworie and Archbishop Kolini at the dedication service of the new building, All Saints Anglican Church.

"I was encouraged to see the witness of those who are not Anglican and was surprised to see so many people attend this service," Archbishop Kolini noted. "There is unity in the one holy catholic and apostolic church. Having Rick Warren there [as preacher] was a blessing."

While in the LA area, the Archbishop was able to connect with old missionary friends he had been with in the Congo, but hadn't seen for 12 years. In addition, he participated in and offered an opening blessing during the Saddleback Civil Forum on Reconciliation at Saddleback Church. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, was awarded the International Medal of Peace for his "dedication, sacrifice and leadership in reconciliation, the fight against poverty and disease and efforts towards economic development of Rwanda."

During a stop in Colorado, Archbishop Kolini attended a gathering of Anglican Mission church members in Denver. The evening offered the opportunity to worship, hear Archbishop Kolini's thoughts on our common life in Christ and ask him questions.

The Archbishop was moved by the enthusiasm and spirit of the meeting. "There is much evidence across the country that the Anglican Mission is stable as it is growing from strength to strength and planting more churches," he commented.

Archbishop Kolini (center) with the Rev. Paul Wildman (left), Senior Pastor of Christ Church, and the Rev. Jay Fowler (right), Senior Pastor of Cambridge Church.

In a stopover in Kansas City, Archbishop Kolini visited with leaders of both Cambridge Church and Christ Church, where he ordained Trish Nelson to the priesthood. "It was wonderful to be with our newest and one of our oldest congregations, and to see them working together in building the Kingdom of God."

Back East, Archbishop Kolini participated in a gathering of Christian leaders from a number of denominations for a summit on marriage in New York City. Passionate about building and maintaining strong marriages, the Archbishop Kolini described the meeting as a honor and also confirmation of a call he has heard from the Lord over the last 10 years.

Archbishop Kolini will be back with us in the US for Winter Conference next January.

Posted By: Cynthia P. Brust
Categories: Recent News