From the Bishop of Brechin
Sir, - Your news item about the monarchy and democracy in
Swaziland (20 September) helpfully
drew attention to the cultural and political complexities
highlighted by the recent undercover film The King and the
People and the Chatham House report Swaziland: Southern
Africa's forgotten crisis.
My diocese has enjoyed a companion link with the diocese of
Swaziland since 1989, the durability of which ensures that the many
challenges facing this beautiful country and its eager people are
recognised within the Anglican Communion. In modest ways, Brechin
diocese channels regular financial and practical assistance,
particularly for women's groups and pre-school centres; but we are
also very keen to learn from the gifts of Swazi Christians.
We are delighted, therefore, that the Rt Revd Ellinah Wamukoya,
Bishop of Swaziland, is visiting our diocese to participate in a
Celebration Synod taking place in Dundee on 19 October. We look
forward to hearing how she has been finding things since her
historic and joyful consecration, which I attended last autumn.
Dioceses are not immune to the cultural realities in which they are
set. I know she appreciates our love and prayers.
The Anglican Province of Southern Africa and the nation's
regional neighbours (particularly South Africa) understand the need
for changes in Swaziland. Political, social, and economic progress
is painfully slow, but Swazis are certainly not forgotten here in
the Scottish Episcopal Church.
NIGEL PEYTON
Bishop's House, 5 Glamis Drive
Dundee DD2 1QG
