Abuja, Sept. 11, 2006 - A meeting of over 400 Anglican delegates begins Tuesday at St Paul’s Cathedral Church, Diobu- Port Harcourt.

The meeting, otherwise known as the Standing Committee of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), is being hosted by the Diocese of Niger-Delta North.

It is normally held twice each year. The last meeting was hosted in February by the Diocese of Ibadan-North at the Cathedral of St Peter Aremo, Ibadan North Diocese.

With ‘We are on the Lord’s Side’, (Exodus 32:36) as it’s theme, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria,  the Most Rev Peter Akinola is expected to deliver his presidential address Thursday.

The meeting will combine a political awareness seminar, plenary sessions, a presentation on 'Religious Virus', bible studies, group discussions, Provincial Women’s work  meetings, audit report and financial budget for year 2007.

Expected speakers at the political awareness seminar include Prof. Maurice Iwu, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mr. Sunday Ehindero, Inspector General of Police, Alh. Idi Farouk, Director General of the National Orientation Agency and Hon. Austin Opara, Deputy Speaker, National Assembly.

Another prelude to the Standing Committee meeting is an evaluation of progress in the Church’s evangelism programme. Archbishops, visitation panels and the Church of Nigeria Missionary Society (CNMS) will meet to do the evaluation, and also chart further steps towards achieving the Church’s goals.

A pastoral letter and message to the nation is expected at the end of the meeting.