In a media statement published May 6 on their diocesan website,  Bishop Robert Duncan of Pittsburgh and assistant Bishop Henry Scriven said they plan to attend the Lambeth Conference of Anglican bishops July 16-Aug. 4.
 
Both previously said they would be attending the Global Anglican Future Conference organized by traditionalist Global South Anglican leaders and scheduled to be held in the Holy Land in late June.
 
“After consulting with the people of Pittsburgh and our friends around the globe, we have come to the conclusion that it is necessary for us to be present at both gatherings,” Bishop Duncan said. “Given the expense and the stated intent of the Archbishop of Canterbury that Lambeth can no longer be considered a decision-making council of the church, choosing to be present was not easy.”
 
The release estimated that the per-bishop cost of attending the entire conference would be about $12,000. In a cost-saving effort, Bishop Duncan said that he will attend July 16-25 while Bishop Scriven will attend July 26 through Aug. 3. Both bishops said they believe it important that the diocese be represented throughout the conference if for no other reason than to provide an alternate perspective on the situation in The Episcopal Church.
 
“Those who accuse us of abandoning the Anglican Communion will certainly be present and vocal,” Bishop Duncan said. “It is important for us to be able to respond directly to their claims about the situation in The Episcopal Church and our place in the Communion.”
 
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