Big decisions December

Standing Committee debates alcohol consumption
In response to Archbishop Peter Jensen’s October request for a continuation of policy debates on matters of importance in the Diocese, the Standing Committee conducted a lengthy discussion on the issues surrounding the consumption of alcohol on church property and at church ministry events. The Archbishop noted the problems caused by alcohol in our society and emphasised the need for discussion, both at Standing Committee and among churches and individuals. The Committee asked the Archbishop to appoint a small group to consider the issues raised and produce a draft policy on the subject.

Indigenous ministry appointments
Standing Committee commended Mr Jonathan Lilley, student minister at Minto Indigenous Church and the Rev Rick Manton, pastor of Mt Druitt Indigenous Fellowship as appointments to the Sydney Anglican Indigenous Peoples’ Ministry Committee.

National Register Canon request
Standing Committee noted that, at its recent session, the General Synod passed a canon to establish a National Register containing information about clergy and laypersons alleged to have engaged in sexual misconduct or child abuse. The Committee asked a group to determine the circumstances in which access to information on the register should be required within the Diocese. The group will also clarify whether any changes are needed to the Discipline Ordinance 2006 to ensure the proper notification of information to, and removal of information from, the National Register.

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