Archbishop Peter Akinola Signs on to Primates' Statement in Support of Diocese, Bishop Duncan

Archbishop Peter Akinola, leader of The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the largest Anglican province in the world, has signed on to this previously released statement in support of Bishop Duncan.

A Joint Statement from Archbishops Akinola of Nigeria, Venables of the Southern Cone, Gomez of the West Indies and Nzimbi of Kenya.

In the name of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Amen. We the undersigned are grieved at the violation of catholic order in the declaration of deposition of The Right Rev. Robert Duncan by the House of Bishops of the Episcopal Church and consider it to be invalid. Legitimate actions of catholic order must rise from Biblical catholic faith. Actions such as this continue to alienate countless Christian people not only within, but beyond the limits of the Communion. We continue to recognize the fidelity and validity of Bishop Duncan's orders, role, and ministry. Without reservation, we continue in full sacramental communion with him as an Anglican bishop. We thank God that by the vote of the Provincial Synod he has been given membership in the House of Bishops of the Southern Cone. Our fellowship and shared ministry with him is not disrupted.

Yours in Christ,

The Most Rev Gregory Venables
The Most Rev Peter Akinola
The Most Rev Drexel Gomez
The Most Rev Benjamin Nzimbi