Genesis Abbey 
of the Benedictine
House of Initia Nova

Abbot Michael-John Austin, OSB
Email: abbot272727@hotmail.com

“Through the waters of Baptism we are born again and again to New Beginnings.”

To: The Most Reverend and Right Honorable Rowan Williams

Lambeth Palace
Lambeth Palace Rd
London SE1 7JU
England

From: Your brother in Christ, Abbot of the House of Initia Nova, Benedictine.

Dear Friend in Christ,

Peace and greetings to you in the Name of Our Lord Jesus Christ and from all who have heard the call to Religious Life as an affirmation of our baptismal vows.

Because of my appreciation for your time and duties as the Archbishop of Canterbury, I don’t want to take one moment more from your day than I need to, for I know that there are weightier issues that continue to pull on the fabric of our beloved Communion.

I am attaching to this letter a page that will appear on our website to all Bishops and Priests of the Anglican Communion who might for a personal reason or for the support of another desire information regarding Religious Life, in particular the Benedictine House of Initia Nova and where we find ourselves during this time of tension and reflection.

My request has two components: One, to recognize the historical importance of the See of Canterbury, your pivotal role as ‘first among equals’, and the constant challenge you have as pastor to the Anglican Communion. Two, as a monastic community, to take no political stand regarding the issues which cause us such distraction and not place our community under any province which might suggest a particular theological position or action.

With this said, I simply ask that you acknowledge our letter and our desire for guidance, support and blessing from the See of Canterbury, as we attempt to remain focused on our spiritual journey and remain balanced as we can.

Also included with this letter are our Foundation documents: Customary and Constitution.

Please know of our constant prayers for you, your multiple responsibilities and for the whole of the Anglican Communion.

With blessings of every kind, your brother in Christ.

 

Abbot Michael-John Austin

January 2, 2010

Cc:
The Right Reverend Andrew Doyle
The Reverend Robert Price