The Anglican Consultative Council is a governing body in the Anglican Communion. The spelling of this name may seem daunting, but it can be easily broken down using IPA phonetic transcription. First, "Anglican" is pronounced /ˈæŋ.ɡlɪ.kən/. Next, "Consultative" is pronounced /kənˈsʌl.tə.tɪv/. Finally, "Council" is pronounced /ˈkaʊn.səl/. When put together, the spelling of "Anglican Consultative Council" results in an organization that aims to promote unity and collaboration within the Anglican Church.
The Anglican Consultative Council (ACC) is an international body within the Anglican Communion, an association of autonomous national and regional churches following the traditions of the Church of England. The ACC serves as a forum for consultation, sharing information, and facilitating the coordination of activities among Anglican churches worldwide.
The Anglican Consultative Council is made up of representatives, known as delegates, from various member provinces of the Anglican Communion. These delegates are often bishops, clergy, and lay people chosen by their respective provinces. The council meets every three to four years to discuss matters of common concern, develop policies, and make recommendations to the Anglican Communion.
The primary purpose of the ACC is to foster and promote unity and cooperation among Anglican churches, while respecting their individual autonomy. It provides a platform for dialogue on theological, social, and ethical issues, as well as matters related to the mission and ministry of the Anglican Communion. The council also addresses matters of interfaith relations, ecumenical engagement, and social justice concerns.
Through its deliberations and recommendations, the Anglican Consultative Council plays a crucial role in shaping the policies and direction of the Anglican Communion, fostering closer bonds between member churches, and ensuring greater cohesiveness within the Anglican tradition. It serves as a valuable resource for Anglican churches globally, offering a space for mutual support, mutual learning, and the exploration of shared challenges and opportunities.