Anglican bishop to speak at first service

His churches represent more than a quarter of believers worldwide.

And so his fellow Anglicans will come to Wheaton Sunday to hear the Rev. Peter Akinola, primate of the Anglican Church of Nigeria, discuss his religious philosophy.

Akinola will serve as guest speaker during the first Midwest Anglican Awakening worship service at Wheaton College's Edman Memorial Chapel. The event will draw members from 20 Anglican churches and aims to celebrate solidarity.

"It's an opportunity for us to celebrate unity, realize that we're engaged in mission together in the Midwest, and to look at where there's need," said the Rev. Jay Greener, one of the event's organizers.

Greener, who preaches at the Church of the Redeemer in Highland Park, says Akinola heads one of the fastest-growing church groups in the world. Its 20 million members are part of the 75 million Anglicans worldwide.

"When he shows up, people are very interested in what he'll have to say," Greener said.

"His talk will be focused on evangelism and how to reach out using the Gospel. We think we have a lot we can learn from him."

More than 1,000 Anglicans with ties to churches in the suburbs, Chicago, Africa, South America and Southeast Asia are expected to participate. Despite their geographical divides, the churches will come together to see how they can help each other in their Christian missions, Greener said.

If this Sunday's service proves successful, organizers hope to make it an annual event. Greener said the goal would be to invite a global Christian leader each year from either the Anglican church or even another denomination.

This Sunday, ministry for children will be offered and nursery care will be provided.

If you go

What: Midwest Anglican Awakening service featuring the Rev. Peter Akinola, primate of the Anglican Church of Nigeria

When:10:30 a.m. Sunday

Where: Wheaton College, Edman Memorial Chapel, Washington and Franklin streets, Wheaton

Cost: Free

Details: (847) 715-6934