The Diocese of Newcastle passed legislation in similar terms to the Wangaratta Diocese authorising the use of a blessing service. However, the Bishop did not provide his assent to the legislation within the required 30 days and, accordingly, the legislation lapsed. There is nothing to prevent the legislation being reintroduced at a subsequent synod and, if assented to by the Bishop it will form part of the law of the diocese of Newcastle.

Dunkle stated his discernment that the "Holy Spirit is calling me to conclude that season and make room for the next person called to lead General. It's not about any particular event or circumstance." The seminary dean wrote that he did not know "who God might be preparing to call next to General nor do I know what God has in store for me."

He said that politics and differences in cultural beliefs should not make citizens clash with each other despite having different political parties. "We are all Zambians and we need this peace to continue. We need this peace for development, we need this peace for the future of our children and our grandchildren. As we are having these thanksgiving prayers today, let us thank God for the peace that we have been enjoying.

Mrs. Kristen Parise, our Communications Director, will be handling any media requests with the support of the Standing Committee. She can be reached at: communications@pitanglican.org

We know that the Lord is always faithful, and we have every confidence in His continued mercy.

Please continue to hold the diocese in your prayers.