You know I said how amazing being sung to in so many different languages was? Well actually, throughout my training and the Conference so far, the thing that has struck me the most is how amazing it is that so many people from so many cultures and backgrounds are working together and in harmony with each other. Bishops from completely different parts of the world are forging friendships that could last a lifetime and are vital to the future well-being of the wider Anglican Communion – and I feel so privileged to be a part of making this event work. It has helped to remind me that the Church of England is not confined to this small island, but, to use an analogy from the Conference Chaplain, has caused waves that have reached the farthest parts of the world. Whenever the Lord’s Prayer is said as part of a Conference event we are all invited to join in with our respective native languages, and at the opening service yesterday the Catherdral resonated with dozens of languages – different sounds but the same sentiment.
It gives me so much hope for the future of our wider Church that even at a time of so much disagreement (even within those who have made it to the Conference) we can forget our differences for long enough to praise God, and to continue to ask for his help and encouragement. I’m going to include a quote of the first and last two lines from the final hymn of yesterday’s opening ceremony:

“O for a thousand tongues to sing
my great Redeemer’s praise…

… and spread through all the earth abroad
the honours of Your name”

Unity within the Anglican Communion is not impossible. I know a lot of people don’t believe that, but I see only goodwill between bishops as I walk through campus. We’re going to get there.