Anglican Communion News Service

The Bishop of Port Elizabeth, the Rt Revd Eric Pike, used the ancient rule of St Benedict in the Charge to his diocesan Synod. He drew parallels between the experiences of Benedict and the situation in Southern Africa today.

Bishop Eric told Synod that Benedict and his monks had looked out on much brokenness and disintegration from the hills to which they had retreated.

"We too have seen the breakdown of the rule of law in Zimbabwe, and on going violence in our own country [South Africa]," said the Bishop. "Clearly issues of poverty and landlessness are major issues which need to be addressed by our leaders, but as a church we need to speak out against the unlawful and violent occupation of land. Likewise we must not be afraid to speak out and expose the rampant corruption, particularly that in our Government Departments, which is so evident."

The bishop warned that Christians should not be found wanting themselves, and should uphold the law and pay their taxes. He gave an example of what might seem a very minor or petty issue, but which he considered important in demonstrating the integrity of Christians:

"Let me say it disturbs me to receive correspondence in Government envelopes or on official paper. As the Church, we must be totally free of dishonesty and corruption at every level, otherwise how can we with a clear conscience condemn Government officials and others for fraud, corruption and theft?" said the Bishop.

Bishop Eric talked about the growing ministry among young people, and the need to build a church that included everyone.

"The Benedictine monastery was a place of hospitality and warmth where all felt at home - young and old. Let us meet young people half way and make them at home in our liturgy and our life," the Bishop appealed.

"You may have been thinking that this great man of God, whose life and rule has impacted on our church so greatly, must have been a bishop or a priest. No, he was a layman, and that ought to say us that we must continue to work energetically to release and empower the ministry of the whole people of God," Bishop Eric challenged his listeners.

"God is pouring out his Spirit on all, and all must be given the space and training to exercise the gifts and ministry which God gives to each one of his children. Let us not elevate the clergy to a place above but place us all under the cross of Christ where the gifts of every person will be affirmed and recognised. We are pilgrims on a journey. Let us not turn back but rather expect God to raise up more Benedicts, who will tower above us as beacons."

Item from: Iindaba