In our introductory article [TLC, Feb. 1], we discussed some of the history of the Lambeth Conference, with special mention of the role of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Also worthy of mention is the ministry of the secretary general of the Anglican Communion, the Rev. Canon John L. Peterson, and his call to prayer, issued to all Anglicans.

As the secretary general, Canon Peterson is also appointed by the archbishop to be the secretary of Lambeth Conference. From his London office, he works with conference manager David Long and communications director James Rosenthal to coordinate the host of staff who will provide for the hospitality, program and communications needs of the 800 bishops who will comprise the 13th Lambeth Conference, beginning July 18.

The primary communications vehicle of the Anglican Communication office is Anglican World magazine, which will be the official document of the conference, both before and after.

In the Michaelmas 1997 issue of Anglican World, Canon Peterson issued a call to all Anglicans to pray for the conference. As he outlined the life of prayer which the bishops will share together at the conference, Canon Peterson wrote, "The real power of prayer needs to stem from you, the laity and clergy, in all our churches around the Communion.

"I am asking every congregation to join me in a special nine days of prayer, following the biblical example in Acts, from Ascension to Pentecost."

As each congregation takes part in these special days of prayer, it is the hope of the Anglican Communion office that Anglicans will make a special mention of Lambeth Conference in worship on the Day of Pentecost, since that is the last major gathering of congregations prior to Lambeth.

In addition to the nine days of prayer, the Anglican Communion office has prepared a Prayer Booklet for the Lambeth Conference. In his introduction to the booklet, the Rt. Rev. Roger Herft, Bishop of Newcastle (Australia) and chaplain of the Lambeth Conference, writes that "we are created to worship - prayer and praise must breathe through words spoken and written. This booklet is provided as a resource for bishops, spouses and dioceses to pray the Lambeth themes, to meditate on the holy scriptures, and to intercede for those with special responsibility for the conference.

"Prayer binds - when conflict divides and distance separates."

Now in its second printing, a shipment of these prayer booklets has been sent by the Anglican Communion office to St. Peter's Church in Sheridan, Wyo. St. Peter's will serve as a U.S. distributor of the booklets, in order to save postage and telephone costs between England and the United States.

The booklets are available for $2 each, including postage, and can be ordered by calling 1-307-674-7655. As a member of the communication team for Lambeth '98, the Rev. David L. Duprey may be reached with any questions regarding Lambeth Conference, the Anglican Communion, or Anglican World magazine.

The Rev. David L. Duprey is rector of St. Peter's Church, Sheridan, Wyo.