Big decisions November

Response to Keith Mascord letter

Standing Committee has approved a report presented by the Rev Dr John Woodhouse, which encouraged the Archbishop to “raise the profile of the standards of personal behaviour and conduct in pastoral relationships (expected of clergy and church workers in the Diocese)”, according to the Faithfulness in Service code. It also asked the Safe Ministry Board to report on the adequacy of grievance procedures regarding pastoral relationships and personal behaviour.

The report is the result of “open, forthright and positive discussion” in three meetings between Dr Keith Mascord and Dr Woodhouse, Bishop Glenn Davies, Mrs Claire Smith and Dr Greg Clarke on the concerns raised in Dr Mascord’s letter late last year. The letter expressed the view that a culture of fear and suspicion of theological liberalism in the Diocese was creating a “highly politicised culture” that was “divisive, unloving and hurtful”. Dr Woodhouse said Dr Mascord was in complete agreement with the group’s report. “The Standing Committee group acknowledges with regret that a substantial number of persons in the Diocese appear to have these grievances, and hopes that the steps recommended in the report might go some way to addressing the concerns.”

St Philip’s, York Street funds to increase

A new ordinance was passed amending the 1966 St Philip’s, York Street Property Leasing Ordinance, which provided for seven-sixteenths of the rental income from 1 York Street to be given to the parish, and the remainder to the Diocese. For five years beginning 2008, the amount received by Synod will decrease to 15 per cent, to grow St Philip’s gospel ministry under the Rev David Mansfield.

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