The Panel of Reference was established by Archbishop Rowan Williams in response to a request from the Primates and Moderators of the Anglican Communion. It was tasked with addressing disputes within the Communion, particularly those involving congregations unwilling to accept the episcopal ministry of their bishop. The Panel held several plenary meetings between 2005 and 2008 to review and discuss its work.
The Anglican Communion Office (ACO) is the official secretariat of the Anglican Communion – a worldwide network of Anglican churches, in over 165 countries. The ACO connects member churches, encourages global mission, fosters Christian unity, promotes ecumenism and amplifies Anglican advocacy.
The ACO also supports and facilitates the ‘Instruments of Communion’: The Anglican Consultative Council, The Lambeth Conference, the Primates’ Meeting and the Archbishop of Canterbury.