Just one day before the beginning of the Anglican Communion Network’s Hope and a Future Conference at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, the list of attendees topped 2,200.   Organizers expect scores more to register when they arrive Nov. 10.

“We’re very pleased that so many are coming to be with us for the next three days of mission-focused speakers and inspiring worship,” said Bishop Robert Duncan.

Among those slated to attend the conference are Anglican archbishops from Nigeria, Uganda, Singapore, the West Indies, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Central Africa.  Scores of bishops, from around the Anglican Communion are also slated to attend as are the leaders and members of organizations that have made “Common Cause” with the ACN.  Common Cause organizations are the American Anglican Council, the Anglican Communion in Canada, the Anglican Mission in America, the Anglican Province in America, the Essentials Federation in Canada, Forward in Faith North America, the Network in Canada, the Reformed Episcopal Church, and the Conference of North American Anglican Bishops.

Nationally known speakers taking part include Rick Warren, author of bestseller “The Purpose-Driven Life,” Anne Graham Lotz, evangelist and daughter of Billy Graham, Joni Eareckson Tada, well-known radio broadcaster, Baroness Caroline Cox, deputy speaker of the U.K. House of Lords, and the Rev. Michael Green, former advisor to the Archbishop of Canterbury on evangelism.

While there is still time to register for the conference, there are a number of events that will be open to the public.  On Nov. 10, all are invited to a Festal Eucharist beginning at 7 pm.  Clergy are especially invited to vest and participate in a mass procession at the beginning of the service.  Clergy wishing to take part should arrive at 6:30 pm with their vestments (white stoles).  Israel Houghton, a Gospel musician and worship leader will be featured in a free concert beginning at 7 pm November.  Finally, the closing Eucharist, 11 am on Nov. 12, is also open to the public.