The Anglican Network in Europe (ANiE) is pleased to announce that on 23rd May 2024, its Synod voted to welcome the Anglican Missionary Congregations (AMC) as part of the emerging province.
Bishop Andy Lines, Presiding Bishop of ANiE, expressed his delight, stating, “It is a great thrill to me that Synod joyfully and overwhelmingly approved the accession of the Anglican Missionary Congregations as a third diocese after an open and constructive debate.”
This significant development follows months of prayerful liaison and detailed discussions between the leadership of ANiE and AMC, showcasing the unity the gospel brings across diverse cultures.
AMC, which began as a single Nigerian diaspora congregation in Manchester, has expanded to 35 congregations across the UK and parts of Europe, served by 52 self-supporting clergy.
Venerable Dr Gideon Chukwudalu Ilechukwu, AMC’s lead missioner, remarked, “We are grateful to the Lord for making it possible for us to be accepted as a Diocese in Gafcon’s Anglican Network in Europe. We also extend our gratitude to the Most Reverend Dr Henry Ndukuba, Primate of All Nigeria, whose blessings have brought us here. We are excited to join ANiE and look forward to our ministry together in this family of believers in Christ. Europe needs the Lord, and together as a team, we will work this field by His grace.”
ANiE believes that the diverse gifts and cultures of each Diocese and its members will enhance the faithful proclamation of Christ to the nations of Europe, working together to further God’s kingdom. We trust that through this partnership, “God’s multi-faceted wisdom may now be made known through the church to the rulers and authorities in the heavens.” (Ephesians 3:10, CSB).
Details of a service to celebrate the inauguration of this new diocese and the election and consecration of a diocesan bishop will be announced soon.