Seychelles to host meeting of Anglican bishops from Africa |20 February 2014

For the first time, Seychelles will host the Council of Anglican Provinces of Africa (Capa) Bishop’s training.

The February 20-27 training is intended for bishops enthroned in the last five years and will touch on topics such as the transition to bishop from priest, care of the clergy, chairing diocesan synod and other meetings, bishops’ liturgical duties such as conducting confirmations, ordinations, sharing in the consecration of new bishops, consecration of churches, among others.
 
The bishops will also learn about the importance of different leadership styles and how to place values such as integrity, health, and family in their lives.

In the past, most of the training programmes took place in Nairobi, church of province of Kenya for a number of reasons such as geographical accessibility, transportation (air and road), logistical and resource personnel. Capa is based in Nairobi along with the Anglican Alliance facilitator.

A total of 40 delegates – mainly from Sudan, Uganda and Kenya including one delegate from Mauritius – are expected to attend the training.

Sixteen training sessions will be spread across four days of their week-long stay.

Originally the programme lasted a month, but over the years has shortened to one week.

The first annual training of newly consecrated bishops started in 1981. The Capa Bishops’ training programme was originally recommended by both the Lambeth Conference of 1968 and 1978 and was attended by the first Bishop of Seychelles, the RT. Revd. George Briggs.

The Anglican Alliance brings together those in the Anglican family of churches and agencies to work for a world free of poverty and injustice, to be a voice for the voiceless, to reconcile those in conflict, and to safeguard the earth.

The council is also collaborating with the Anglican Alliance to end East African famine, tackle HIV and Aids, improve governance and work towards peace and reconciliation.

Anglican Bishop of Seychelles James Wong has said that the Diocese feels very honoured and gives thanks to god.
 
It is a historical moment for the Anglican Diocese and Bishop Wong has said he is looking forward to welcoming his brother bishops.