Missionary couple Johann and Louise Vanderbijl helped to establish St Frumentius two years ago, with Johann serving as Dean. The vacancy for a new Dean has arisen because they are starting new roles in the Anglican province of Southern Africa.

There is something odd about Moderator the Most Rev. T. K. Oommen because he does not quite put his finger on the problem CSI is facing. Divisions between the constituent churches of the Church of South India are considered now a non-issue though churches in several regions in south India are still seen to be preserving the heritage of their parent denominations.

The Hereford vote stops short of full-blown gay weddings in church but bishops warned beforehand it will increase pressure for a wholesale change in the CofE's definition of marriage.

'Given that the Church of England in part defines its doctrine through its authorised liturgies, even if this service did not amount to a change in marriage, it would increase pressure towards such a change,' Hereford Bishop's Council warned delegates in a briefing paper before the vote.

Besides reflecting on the theme of the conference, delegates also shared from the contexts in which their churches are ministering so that there can be mutual encouragement and prayer for the work of the churches across East Asia. The delegates were also given the opportunity to worship with local Anglican churches in the Yangon area and were greatly encouraged by the devotion of the congregations and their warm welcome.