The meeting of Anglican primates at Kanuga [p. 6] was in some ways a remarkable gathering. While the primates did not take formal action against the Episcopal Church or anyone else regarding issues of sexuality, they did emphasize the importance of unity, and showed a willingness to address potentially divisive matters.

Persons who were looking for quick solutions on whether the Episcopal Church ought to be disciplined for its tolerance of same-sex blessings, ordinations of homosexual persons, and for its pressure on those unable to accept ordination of women, will be disappointed that the primates did not take action. But the 35 primates who gathered in North Carolina did acknowledge "alienated groups" within the church's life and committed themselves "to seek for ways to secure sustained pastoral care for all in our Communion."

Gathered in a heavily guarded setting of retreat and rooted in daily Bible study and worship [TLC, March 25], the primates offered to Anglicans everywhere some encouraging developments. Their pastoral letter and call to prayer emphasize the importance of scripture and the need for unity among the 38 churches of the Anglican Communion. The document calls for a time of prayer across the Communion, between Ascension and Pentecost, and it acknowledges that this is "a crucial and testing time for our Communion."

The Action Plan produced by the primates shows their willingness to take seriously the mind of the 1998 Lambeth Conference of Anglican bishops calling for an increased role for the primates. The Action Plan addresses such matters as poverty/trade, HIV/AIDS, theological education, regional issues, the role of the primates, and the unity of the Communion. We are encouraged that To Mend the Net, the book published by two of the primates [TLC, Feb. 25], is being referred to the newly formed Inter Anglican Theological and Doctrinal Commission (IATDC) and brought back to the 2002 primates' meeting in the United Kingdom.

It is also a hopeful sign that the primates held a plenary session on Canon Law and the Communion. A distinguished Welsh professor made a presentation on canon law, reflecting on Anglican experiences of church order and law, and how the law of each church might be developed to enhance global communion. The study of canon law by the primates probably will be a lengthy process, but eventually it could be helpful in clarifying important issues facing the Communion.

Another encouraging sign is the fact that several of the participants noted that the meeting was one of the most successful of the primates' gatherings, and that they were able to speak candidly and forthrightly with one another. Considering the fact that there are major differences of opinions among the various archbishops and presiding bishops, such remarks can be viewed as positive.

We are aware that there are congregations and individuals considering departure from the Episcopal Church. They probably will perceive the announcements from Kanuga as lack of action. We beg to differ. Like the Lambeth Conference, the primates' meeting has no legal authority over the 38 individual churches of the Anglican Communion. The group is unable to make decisions that will bind particular churches. Nevertheless, the primates have taken some major steps toward strengthening the Anglican Communion. They have heard the concerns of those who feel alienated from the church and have committed themselves to provide pastoral care for all.

The primates, under the leadership of the Most Rev. George Carey, Archbishop of Canterbury, exercised responsible leadership during their time in this country. Their commitment to meet the challenges facing the Anglican Communion should be appreciated by all.