In his 10th year in office, the Archbishop of Canterbury may feel as though he is being pulled in several directions at once. Internationally, there are persons who want him to have a greater presence, becoming more involved in the 38 churches which comprise the Anglican Communion. Back home, in the Church of England, some persons are concerned that the Most Rev. George Carey has neglected his Diocese of Canterbury and his pastoral ministry there and in England's House of Bishops, because of his international commitments.

The problem is being addressed by a review panel, led by Lord Hurd, Britain's former foreign secretary, which is examining the archbishop's responsibilities. The review panel is considering whether the Archbishop of York should take on an increased role within the Church of England, thereby enabling Archbishop Carey to have a greater international role, and whether other senior bishops could have enhanced responsibilities.

The changing roles of the Archbishop of Canterbury should be examined. While almost no one is suggesting that he should become more of an "Anglican pope," the nature of the expanding Anglican Communion calls for an increased international presence. Stronger differences of opinion among member churches of the Communion, the desire of the Anglican primates to gather more frequently, and the astounding growth of provinces in Africa and Asia all point to an expanded role for the Archbishop of Canterbury. We hope that when the review panel issues its report, it will agree.