Big Decisions - August 2006

Webmaster | 1 August 2006

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Affiliated churches process set
The process for non-Anglican churches to become affiliated with Sydney Diocese has been clarified and formalised by Standing Committee. The process will involve an application for affiliation being received, Standing Committee being notified of the application, the form of affiliation agreement being considered and signed by the church, and the Standing Committee approving the affiliation. The Diocesan Secretary will also notify the bishop of the Anglican diocese in which the church is located of the proposed affiliation.

Time right for acquiring new property
The time has come to begin acquiring land and constructing ministry buildings as prioritised by the Mission Property Committee (MPC), Standing Committee resolved. The MPC has been asked to report the progress on the location of sites and funding options ‘as a matter of urgency’. Discussions will be held on the question of whether the assets of the Diocesan Endowment (diocesan property and investments) should be used to fund ‘mission enhancing projects’.

‘Presbyter’ to replace ‘priest’
‘Presbyter’ will replace the word ‘priest’ in more publications and legislation across the Diocese. A 2004 Synod resolution sought to remove the word ‘priest’ because of its modern meaning as someone ‘who mediates between man and God’. The change has already taken effect in a number of diocesan publications.

No confirmation barrier to Communion
Standing Committee has backed a proposal removing all formal barriers to those being baptised (but not confirmed) as adults receiving the Lord’s Supper. A report noted that this practice occurs in many churches, and an Ordinance at Synod will seek to regularise the practice. ‘Senior lay persons’ will also be encouraged to be involved in the preparation of candidates for confirmation.

Internet grant for College of Planters
The College of Church Planters has received a one-off grant of $3,000 for the establishment of a website. Standing Committee approved the request for the grant, which will enable the College of Planters to provide resources for those undertaking church plants.

Help for those appointing a new rector
Standing Committee has called for changes to the legislation on appointing new senior ministers. This year’s Synod will consider the proposed changes, which aim to simplify the process for those involved. Possible changes will include allowing the Presentation Board (comprising parish nominators and diocesan representatives) to meet via teleconference or other electronic means, and the removal of the current requirement for a nomination to be made every three months.

New plan for clergy relocation costs
Standing Committee has amended the Clergy Removals Fund Ordinance that provides for ministers and their families to be reimbursed for relocating upon moving to a new position, retirement or death. The amendments are particularly aimed at providing a more equitable reimbursement for clergy moving to Sydney from outside the Diocese, as well as ensuring all clergy are paid a fair amount.

Parish Cost Recoveries fixed for 2007
The fixed component of the parochial cost recovery charges (annual funds paid by each parish to the Diocese) for 2007 have been set at $11,051 per minister and $10,231 per assistant minister.

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