The Convocation of The Jurisdiction of the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy (JAFC) is coming upon us shortly, as well as The Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) Provincial Assembly. There have been many questions about what these events are, and what it is they seek to do. I hope to demystify these ideas in this edition of the St. George Sentinel.

Convocation

This is the annual business meeting of our “diocese.” We are technically a Jurisdiction which is more like an Archdiocese, but for all intents and purposes, lets just consider it a diocese for right now.

”The Convocation, as the legislative body of the Jurisdiction, shall have authority to adopt Canons, approve resolutions and budgets, and take any other specific action for the conduct of the affairs of the Jurisdiction.” (JAFC Constitution, Article V, Section 1)

This is where the business happens, as well as annual training for clergy and the lay representatives of the JAFC who attend. The primary focus is on chaplaincy which makes sense given the mission of the JAFC.

Provincial Assembly

This is a meeting which takes place every 5 years to conduct the business of the ACNA, like the election of a new Archbishop. An Archbishop can serve up to two five-year terms, and our Archbishop, Foley Beach, is finishing his second term. We will install a new Archbishop at the Provincial Assembly next week. This will be decided by the College of Bishops, whose “chief work… shall be the propagation and defense of the Faith and Order of the Church, and in service as the visible sign and expression of the Unity of the Church.” (ACNA Constitution, Article X, Section 1).

Are you going to Provincial Assembly or Convocation?

Great question, to which the answer is “Yes.” Archbishop Beach has asked the JAFC to be present at the Provincial Assembly, so our Convocation will be happening at the same place (St. Vincent College, Latrobe, PA) at the same time but remain separate events (for the most part). We will conduct our usual business and training, but will at times like the Eucharistic celebrations participate with the Assembly. However, the actual business of the Provincial Assembly is done by representatives of the dioceses:

“The Provincial Assembly shall be composed of representatives of all the dioceses and networks (whether regional or affinity-based) in balance and in number from the laity, bishops and other clergy as from time-to-time determined by canon” (ACNA Constitution, Article VI, Section 3).

None of our people going are among the JAFC representatives to the ACNA Provincial Assembly, but we will have our representation at the JAFC Convocation.

We look forward to gathering together in this unique situation with our brothers and sisters from across not only the United States, but also Mexico and Canada (ACNA), as well as our fellow Chaplains serving across the world in various locations. Please be praying for this gathering, that the Lord will work mightily through it and continue building the bonds of brotherhood across the entire Province of the ACNA.

“Almighty God, giver of every good gift: Look graciously on your Church, and so guide the minds of those who shall choose an Archbishop for this province that we may receive a faithful pastor who will preach the Gospel, care for your people, equip us for ministry, and lead us forth in fulfillment of the Great Commission; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.”