2017 ANNUAL PRESBYTERY & SYNOD MEETING MINUTES
THURSDAY 23 NOVEMBER 2017
OPENING WORSHIP The Moderator, Rev. Sue Ellis, opened the annual meeting of the Presbytery and Synod 2017, inviting Sean Weetra to bring a Welcome to Country.
The Seeds Worship Team led the meeting in opening worship. Bible readings included Philippians 2:1-13 (have the mind of Jesus) and Matthew 8:23 – 27 (Jesus asleep in the boat). The Moderator spoke to her theme for this year, “Nurture” and intentional discipleship.
The Moderator’s opening sermon included an invitation to “share in the year of Nurture”. The year of “Nurture” is depicted in the Moderator’s logo as the parent bird feeding a nest full of baby birds. “Nests are for hatching out and developing baby birds”. Nurture your discipleship of Jesus intentionally.
WELCOME The Moderator welcomed: the President of the Uniting Church in Australia, Stuart McMillan the Assembly General Secretary, Colleen Geyer the President-elect, Dr Deidre Palmer to the meeting New members to the Presbytery and Synod were acknowledged and apologies were recognised On his arrival, the Moderator welcomed Steve Francis to the meeting, Moderator of the Synod in WA
INTRODUCTION TO MARRIAGE CONVERSATIONS Rev. Prof. Andrew Dutney spoke about meeting procedures in preparation for the marriage conversation group discussions and the resources we all have, i.e. Scripture, Tradition and Reason.
BUSINESS SESSION
OPENING PROPOSAL PROPOSAL 1
(PS17.16) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery and Synod resolve to:
1. a. Adopt Standing Orders and Rules of Debate as set out in ‘A Manual for Meetings in the Uniting Church’, as recorded in the Constitution and Regulations, 2015 edition. b. Approve that the style of voting shall be using coloured cards.
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2. Note that at the beginning of each session the Moderator will deal with the business coming before the house in the following order: a. Minutes of any meeting requiring to be approved or confirmed. b. Letters or other communications to be received. c. Reports from the Presbytery and Synod Business Committee or another special committee appointed by the Presbytery and Synod. d. Confirmation or variation of the proposed hours of session and order of the day. e. Formal Business. f. The order of the day.
3. Receive all reports as printed in the ‘Reports and Business Papers of the Presbytery and Synod of South Australia 23 – 25 November 2017 and Supplements thereto.
4. Note that: a. questions relating to the reports and proposals brought before the Presbytery and Synod by the Business Committee will be answered at the time when the proposals arising from such reports are being considered by a plenary session of the Presbytery and Synod. b. questions relating to the reports and proposals which are not considered by a plenary session of Presbytery and Synod because of time constraints, will be referred along with the proposals to the Standing Committee. c. replies to questions shall be limited to three (3) minutes unless otherwise determined by the house.
5. Define the boundaries of the house to be the seated area of the ground floor and the cry room of Adelaide West Uniting Church.
6. Adopt the Hours of Session as listed hereunder: Sessions 1-5 Thursday 23 November 9.30am - 9.00pm Sessions 6-10 Friday 24 November 9.00am - 9.00pm Sessions 11-13 Saturday 25 November 9.00am - 4.00pm
7. Appoint the following officers for this Synod: a. Assistant Secretaries: Malcolm Wilson (Event Manager) Rev. Rob Brown Rev. Linda Driver b. Minute Secretary: Tracey Bost Bev Freeman c. Chief Scrutineer: Anne Wilson Scrutineers Matthew Heath, Warwick Jarrett, Chris May, Michael Parker, Peter Wilson, Sonia Wilson
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8. Declare that proposals be dealt with in the following order: a. Those which must be dealt with by Presbytery and Synod in full session which cannot be referred (in an order decided by the Business Committee). b. Those which arrive at least a fortnight before Presbytery and Synod which deal with policy matters (in an order decided by the Business Committee). c. All others (in an order decided by the Business Committee).
9. Ask that proposals with costing implications: a. includes a process for raising new revenue and/or b. be submitted to the next year’s budget process to be determined by Synod/Presbytery and/or c. be submitted to annual Presbytery/Synod grant processes.
10. Agree that the closure time for receiving of nominations to all Councils, Committees, Boards and Assembly 2018 be 4.00pm on Friday 24 November 2017.
11. Agree that any necessary ballots be held on Saturday 25 November with ballot papers available from 8.30am and that ballots will close at 11.00am on that same day.
12. Co-opt the following persons: Peter Russell Allan Barnes Jim Everett
IN MEMORIAM PROPOSAL 8 The Moderator brought Proposals 8 to the meeting including a minute’s silence for those Ministers who have passed away since the last annual meeting.
(PS17.17) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery and Synod resolve to:
STAND IN SILENCE to acknowledge the ministry of the following Ministers who have died since the 2016 Annual Meeting of the Presbytery and Synod, and in gratitude to God for their contribution to the ministry and mission of the Uniting Church:
Rev. Claude Robbins Cotton Rev. Donald George Haydon Rev. Maurice Allan Lind Rev. George Stanley Martin Rev. Frank Marlow Measday Rev. Janet Isla Murchland Rev Albert Patrizi Rev. Rosslyn Clayton Read Rev. Craig Scott
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CEO/GENERAL SECRETARY’S REPORT Rev. Nigel Rogers, CEO/General Secretary spoke to his report, beginning with a question, “How would we know as a Presbytery and Synod if we were healthy or otherwise”?
The CEO/General Secretary spoke about the next Strategic Plan – next year will be a crucial time for the Presbytery and Synod SA in determining God’s direction for us - seeking to enact a process where we will engage in workshops, urban and rural.
Other recent activities of the Presbytery and Synod include: The Presbytery and Synod SA continues to work towards a balanced budget for 2017 and 2018; Refurbishment of 212 Pirie Street is complete while the refurbishment of the Uniting College for Leadership & Theology at Brooklyn Park progressing well; Leadership development opportunities available; How the Uniting Church has engaged with the Royal Commission (into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse)
Question time focused on the processes and procedures for Resourcing Congregations and the Generate 2021 Project.
STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT
No questions were received regarding the Standing Committee Report or Minutes. The CEO/General Secretary thanked members of Standing Committee and the Moderator (Chair), affirming that Standing Committee is a critical meeting of the Presbytery and Synod. The Moderator thanked the CEO/General Secretary for his hard work and leadership of the Presbytery and Synod.
MESSAGE FROM THE ASSEMBLY GENERAL SECRETARY
The Moderator welcomed Colleen Geyer to speak to the process used by the Assembly to manage the marriage conversation. Assembly have asked all Uniting Churches how they want the Assembly (2018) to manage the marriage conversation.
The feedback from churches (3 questions) will be compiled in report form and sent to the next Assembly Standing Committee to make recommendations to the 2018 Assembly meeting.
The CEO/General Secretary will provide a response from the SA Presbytery and Synod to the next Assembly.
Following a time in working groups, the Moderator prayed for the gathering thanking them for participating and the sensitivity they showed to each other. The Feedback Group will bring a report on Saturday, for information only.
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STIPENDS AND ALLOWANCES PROPOSAL 7 The Chairperson, Brian Hern was unable to attend the meeting, therefore, the Moderator brought the proposal.
(S17.18) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Synod resolve to:
APPROVE the 2018 fuel and travel rates as shown:
1. An average fuel price of $1.40 per litre (ULP). (A.12 of Schedule A) 2. Travel in own vehicle (when depreciation and standing charges are paid) at 19.30 cents per kilometre. (A.9 of Schedule A) 3. Travel in lease vehicle at 12.05 cents per kilometre. (A.10 of Schedule A) 4. Travel in own vehicle (when depreciation and standing charges are not paid) at 47.5 cents per kilometre. (A.11 of Schedule A)
PROTESTANT REFORMATION PROPOSAL 12
Rev. Murray Earl brought the following proposal regarding the Reformation. Rev. Prof. Andrew Dutney, in response to the proposal, suggested a resource, “Of Good Comfort” by Stephen Pietsch.
(PS17.21) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery and Synod resolve to:
1. Recognise and celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation (1517-2017).
2. Request each member to read at least one book on any aspect of the Protestant Reformation within the next 12 months, for theirs and the Synod's mutual benefit.
PROMOTIONAL ITEM - MEDIACOM Rev. Dr Ian Price, CEO of Mediacom, brought a sample of books for the Presbytery and Synod’s information, including books written by local authors. For details go to http://www.mediacom.org.au/
PROPOSAL 22 – DETENTION OF REFUGEES ON MANUS ISLAND The gathering discussed Proposal 22 however due to time constraints, the proposal was deferred to another time during the meeting.
RESOURCES BOARD REPORT PROPOSAL 4
Peter Battersby, Executive Officer, Resources, spoke to the Resources Board report, including an update on key projects:
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Brooklyn Park – (Middle Section) - Uniting College Brooklyn Park (Northern Section) – Emmaus Christian College UnitingVenues SA o Adare - Roof Replacement o Nunyara – New Meeting Room Operational Update Risk management - Crisis Management Plan – Crisis Hotline Number Investment Services update including the Financial Services Licence from ASIC Mission and Service Fund - Insurance Reserves have been increased to allow for any future claims out of the Royal Commission. Adoption of 2016 Financial Statements include: Peter Wood Devona Trust, 3DNet Mission Network, Northern Rural Mission Network, Thuruna and Stillpoint Community. 2018 Mission and Service Fund budget process including projected income and expenses, working towards a balanced budget for 2018: o Built off the 2017 balanced budget model o First principles/expense analysis o Assumptions, i.e. grants, CPI, stipend increase and the provision to increase in lay salaries. o UC Invest Grant – 20% of our annual income o Income and expense both increase .82% over 2017 Work, Health and Safety in property, insurance and human resources Acknowledgements included: o Governors of the Parkin Mission & Parkin Trust o UC Invest and investors o Resources Board and Investment Committee o Tom Adams and Rob Williamson who have completed their full terms o Property Committee, Risk Management Committee, UC Investment Committee, Uniting Venues SA Committee o Resources Team Managers and Resources staff o Retirement of Mr Wayne Abbott and Mr Peter Pledge
(S17.22) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Synod resolve to:
1. Approve the adoption of the financial statements for Peter Wood Devona Trust, 3DNet Mission Network, Northern Rural Mission Network, Thuruna- Campsite and Stillpoint Community for the year ending 31 December 2016.
2. Place on record its appreciation for the contribution of Wayne Abbott who has served the Uniting Church as Chairperson and Member of Property Trust, Member of Resources Board (preceded by the Property and Finance Commission), Member of Property Committee and Member of Standing Committee.
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3. Place on record its appreciation for the contribution of Peter Pledge for his years of service as auditor for the Congregational Bookkeeping Unit and his services to the Presbytery and Synod office.
PROPERTY TRUST & RESOURCES BOARD APPOINTMENTS PROPOSAL 10
(S17.19) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Synod resolve to:
1. In accordance with sections 11(2)(d) and 11(6) of ‘The Uniting Church in Australia Act, 1976-1977’, approve that the following appointments be made: a) Rev. Dr Graham Humphris as Chairperson of the Property Trust for a period of one year from the rise of the 2017 annual Synod meeting. b) Dr Alice McCleary as member of the Property Trust for a period of one year from the rise of the 2017 annual Synod meeting. c) Michael McClaren as member of the Property Trust for a period of one year from the rise of the 2017 annual Synod meeting. d) Steve Roder as a member of the Property Trust for a period of two years commencing from the rise of the 2017 Annual Synod meeting. e) Rev. Ross Honey, as a member of the Property Trust for a period of two years commencing from the rise of the 2017 Annual Synod meeting. f) Peter Battersby as Secretary of the Property Trust for a period of one year from the rise of the 2017 annual Synod meeting.
(S17.20) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Synod resolve to:
2. In accordance with Resources Board By-law 18.1.2, approve that the following appointments be made: a) Rev. Ross Honey to the Resources Board for his third term, commencing from the rise of the 2017 annual Synod meeting and concluding at the rise of the 2019 annual Synod meeting. b) Steve Roder to the Resources Board for his fourth term, commencing from the rise of the 2017 annual Synod meeting and concluding at the rise of the 2019 annual Synod meeting.
MISSION AND SERVICE FUND BUDGET 2018 PROPOSAL 5
(S17.23) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Synod resolve to:
Approve the 2018 Mission and Service Fund Budget, a break-even operating budget (on an accrual basis) and a capital expenditure budget of $139,700.
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INTER-GENERATIONAL MINISTRY TEAM PRESENTATION
Rev. Mike Wardrop and Mel Neumann spoke to the gathering about intergenerational ministry, what it means, the benefits to young people and how to encourage and equip congregations in faith formation for youth and young adults.
ORDINATION PROPOSALS
The Moderator advised that no objections have been received for Proposals 2 and 3 and presented the proposals to the meeting. Jesse Size and Mark Shultz left the meeting during a time of deliberation.
ORDINATION PROPOSAL 2
(P17.24) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery resolve to:
ORDAIN Jesse Size as a Deacon in the Uniting Church in Australia.
ORDINATION PROPOSAL 3
(P17.25) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery resolve to:
ORDAIN Mark Schultz as a Minister of the Word in the Uniting Church in Australia.
UAICC PROPOSALS
The Moderator welcomed Congress members including Aunty Denise, Sean Weetra, Candace Champion, Dean Whittaker, Uncle Nelson, Uncle Victor, Julia Lennon and Caroline Andersen (mother of Wayne Morrison). o Sean Weetra has been appointed to the position of Congress Chairperson. o Aunty Denise spoke about a trip to the United Church in Canada o Sean Weetra and Candace Champion spoke about their internships and the opportunities they have had o Darwin President’s Conference and Sovereignty and Treaty o Julia Lennon spoke about ministry in Oodnadatta, the challenges they face especially without a building and her passion for ministry.
Caroline spoke to the gathering about the death of her son, what they know and what they have yet to be told regarding his death.
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ABORIGINAL IMPRISONMENT AND BLACK DEATHS IN CUSTODY PROPOSAL 14
Rev. Dean Whittaker and Caroline spoke to this this proposal.
(P17.26) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery resolve to, in solidarity with UAICC Regional Council SA:
1. Express to the SA Government its continuing deep concern about Aboriginal imprisonment and black deaths in custody, and in particular, the death of Wayne Morrison after unexplained events at Yatala Labour Prison. 2. Call for the immediate commencement of the coroner’s inquest into Mr Morrison’s death. 3. Call for the immediate release of: a) the coroner’s inquest report regarding Mr Morrison’s death as soon as it becomes available. b) all closed circuit television recordings relating to Mr Morrison’s death to his family.
TJILBRUKE SPRING SITE AT KINGSTON PARK PROPOSAL 15
The gathering discussed Proposal 15 however due to time constraints, the proposal was deferred to another time during the meeting.
ADJOURNEMENT
THE Moderator adjourned the meeting until 9 am Friday 24 November 2017.
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2017 ANNUAL PRESBYTERY & SYNOD MEETING MINUTES
FRIDAY 24 NOVEMBER 2017
OPENING WORSHIP The Moderator, Rev. Sue Ellis, opened the session. Westminster students presented a song followed by a message from the Interim Chaplain, Westminster, Rev. Phil Hoffman.
BIBLE STUDY Craig Mitchell delivered Part 1 of his Bible Study, reading from John 15:1-17 and a time of imagining the Pentecost and how the disciple’s lives and ministry changed.
Read Craig Mitchell’s bible study - http://growing-disciples.org.au/?p=1431
ANNESLEY COLLEGE PRESENTATION Luke Ritchie – Principal of Annesley Junior School, spoke to the meeting about the growth in the ELC – Year 5 for 2017/2018 and how the School are embracing their Christian heritage, their positive recruitment processes and the new State of the Art Innovation Centre.
UCA BENEFICIARY FUND – MERCER SUPER TRUST Kieron Paris, Minister Care Advocate, spoke to the gathering, including: Minister Care Advocates for SA are Kieron Paris and Brad Smith Policy Committee Representatives include Member Representatives (Dr Alice McCleary (SA) About the Beneficiary Fund: Active defined benefit members 639 – 26% Pension members – 1440 = 59% Other accumulation members 376 = 15% Total Assets $440 million Plan is fully funded (determined by the Actuary) 2018 Pension Indexation 1.5%
ASSEMBLY REPORT Stuart McMillan, President, UCA, and Colleen Geyer, Assembly General Secretary, brought the Assembly Report. The President began with an Acknowledgement of Country and proceeded to speak about: 40th anniversary of Uniting Church and the words of the first President, Rev. Dr Davis McCaughey. National Presbytery Ministers gathering in Queensland 40 days of Prayer The UAICC and our covenant Having a sustained ecumenical dialogue
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Consultation to bring a revised climate statement to the 15th Assembly in July 2018 Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse 15th Assembly 2018 Transforming Worship Conference Introduction to Sovereignty – Rev. Dr Chris Budden’s discussion paper Call for the Church to give to the Mapoon Appeal. Pray for the President-elect, Dr Deidre Palmer
UNITING LEADERS Rev. Stu Cameron, lead Minister from Newlife UC in Queensland, spoke to the gathering about the many opportunities there are for leadership education in the Presbytery and Synod; Stu will spend one day a week working on Uniting Leaders in his role as Director of the Uniting Leaders Project.
MATTERS OF VITAL IMPORANCE TO THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH - PROPOSAL 11 Discussion on “what is vital to the life of the Church” was debated. The proposal did not proceed.
INTRODUCTION TO SOVERIGNTY AND TREATY The President, Stuart McMillan spoke about: The covenant, formalised in 1994, following an invitation by UAICC to join with them 2009 brought a new Preamble – recognised Australia’s tragic and violent history Repudiation of the Assembly of the so-called doctrine of discovery Sovereignty - the Creator Spirit’s creation and the First peoples
The gathering broke into table groups to discuss Rev. Dr Chris Budden’s paper.
APPRECIATION FOR PAUL GLAZBROOK (MOP), FRONTIER SERVICES PARKIN-STURT REMOTE AREA MINISTRY PROPOSAL 9 Rev. Diane Bury spoke to the proposal – a celebration of Paul’s ministry.
(P17.27) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery resolve to:
Place on record its appreciation of Paul Glazbrook (MOP) for his ministry with Frontier Services Parkin-Sturt Remote Area Ministry Patrol.
DETENTION OF REFUGEES ON MANUS ISLAND PROPOSAL 22
(P17.28) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery resolve to:
1. Express its deep concern for the health and welfare of the refugees and asylum seekers on Manus Island to the Minister for Immigration, Peter Dutton, and the Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, and
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urge the Government to effect immediately a humane resolution to the unfolding humanitarian crisis, and to ensure physical security, medical care and basic necessities for their health and welfare, and to reinstate immediately the provision of torture and trauma counselling and interpretation services.
Following discussion, the Moderator determined the meeting needed to use Formal Procedures to regarding Proposal 22 (2).
(PS17.29) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery and Synod resolve to move to Formal Procedures.
(P17.30) It was AGREED (BY FORMAL MAJORITY) that the Presbytery resolve to:
2. Encourage Uniting Church members and their congregations to join in with community actions that call for the Australian Government to evacuate the men on Manus Island to a safe place and if necessary to Australia to await resettlement, to ensure their safety and security, and to find safe haven for the acknowledged genuine refugees without further delay.
(PS17.31) It was AGREED that the Presbytery and Synod resolve to move back to Consensus Procedures.
(P17.32) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery resolve to:
3. Encourage Uniting Church members and their congregations to contact Federal MPs by letters, emails or phone calls to express their grave concern for the refugees and asylum seekers on Manus Island, and to ask Government MPs to ensure that the Government expedites a humane response to the continuing crisis unfolding for the refugees and asylum seekers on Manus.
(P17.33) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery resolve to:
4. Resource members and their congregations with current information, to be available on the Uniting Church SA website (sa.uca.org.au), so that informed conversations can happen with friends, families, work colleagues etc., in order that a groundswell of community concern is enabled, and request the Public Theology and Mission Sub-Committee (Mission and Leadership Development Board), in collaboration with the National UCA justice network and refugee networks (Circle of Friends, Justice4RefugeesSA, ACFID, Amnesty and our partner church in Papua New Guinea – UC Papua New Guinea) to compile current information and keep resources updated on the Uniting Church SA website (sa.uca.org.au).
PHILIPPINES PARTNERSHIP PROPOSAL 24 Rev. Sandy Boyce and Rev. Christa Megaw spoke about our Middle Luzon partnership, formed in 2014, and the human rights violations in the Philippines.
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(PS17.34) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery and Synod resolve to:
In collaboration with the Vic/Tas Synod and other Synods:
1. Act in solidarity with our partner church, the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP), to raise awareness through a letter writing campaign directed at members of the Australian Federal Government, and the Philippines Consulate, calling for: an end to extrajudicial killings in the Philippines; the respect for due process and the rule of law; the genuine and credible investigation of extrajudicial killings and the prosecution of those who are responsible.
2. Ask Rob Floyd, Uniting Church in Australia Assembly Associate General Secretary, in liaison with the Uniting Church National Justice Network, to contact the United Nations Human Rights Council through its special procedures mandate to request that a special rapporteur be sent to the Philippines to investigate the human rights conduct of the Philippine Government and the perpetration of extrajudicial killings.
3. Note that the Australian Government is currently strengthening its relationship with the Philippines (which includes increased military support for and presence in the Philippines), and seek assurance from the Australian Government that the relationship with the Philippines will place a high priority on a proper respect for human rights and the rule of law in the Philippines. We also request that the Australian Government be prepared to challenge the Philippines Government when there is evidence of systemic human rights abuses.
REVIEW OF PRESBYTERY AND SYNOD COMMITTEES, BOARDS AND COUNCILS - PROPOSAL 23 Discussion on reviews of Presbytery & Synod Boards, Councils and Committees was debated. The proposal did not proceed.
UNITING COLLEGE FOR LEADERSHIP & THEOLOGY https://unitingcollege.edu.au/
Rev. Christy Capper, Rev. Sean Gilbert and other faculty, past and present students spoke about the many learning opportunities provided by the Uniting College for Leadership and Theology. Rev. Prof. Andrew Dutney (Principal) spoke about the establishment of the Mission and Leadership Development Board, the significant vacancies in the Mission Resourcing Team, that there is still some work to be done in re-establishing the Team. In 2018, we look forward to a College in the Community Program – deliver courses that congregations want to have and a number of regional programs.
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GOVERNMENT DECISIONS AFFECTING ABORIGINAL PEOPLE PROPOSAL 27
Dr Marelle Harisun and Peter Russell presented this proposal.
(PS17.35) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery and Synod resolve to:
1. ENCOURAGE all members of congregations to commit to working for the goals expressed in the Uluru Statement from the Heart;
2. EXPRESS its profound appreciation of the generosity of the First Peoples of Australia who offer Australians the Uluru Statement from the Heart and propose a “National Indigenous Assembly – A First Nations Voice”, inviting Australia to enshrine it in the Australian Constitution;
3. COMMUNICATE to the relevant Minister, the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the Federal Parliament, and for information to the Premier of the South Australian Government and Leader to the Opposition, the concern of the Presbytery and Synod of South Australia that the Federal Government has made the decision that there will not be an elected consultative Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander national advisory body to the government on issues that affect those peoples.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND DECISIONS FOR ORDINATION - PROPOSAL 25
Rev. Prof. Andrew Dutney spoke to this proposal. Due to time constraints, the proposal was deferred to another time in the meeting.
RECOGNITION OF MINISTRY SERVICE
The service began with Tongan singers.
Acknowledgements
The Moderator invited the gathering to stand to remember the passing of our 6th South Australia, Moderator Mrs Elizabeth Finnegan, the first lay person to hold the office of the Moderator and the first woman.
2017 marks the 50th anniversary of the ordination of two of our ministers, Rev. Jim Peacock and Past Moderator and General Secretary Rev. Don Catford who were both ordained in 1967 as Methodist Ministers at Kent Town.
Retired Ministers and Acknowledgement of Lay Preachers
Accredited Lay Pastor, Graham Ingram was acknowledged for his ministry, accompanied by his wife Kay Ingram.
Lay Preachers
30 years Pat Crouch 40 years Craig Bailey, John de Rooy, Shirley James, Laurence Joyce, Janet Munro
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50 years Don Sarre 60 years Peter Bird, Iain Kilpatrick, Malcolm Potter, Milton Rowe.
Ordination Service
Katalina Taahafe-Williams was ordained as a Minister of the Word.
ADJOURNEMENT
THE Moderator adjourned the meeting until 9 am Saturday 25 November 2017.
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2017 ANNUAL PRESBYTERY & SYNOD MEETING MINUTES
SATURDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2017
OPENING WORSHIP The Moderator, Rev. Sue Ellis, opened the session that included a reading from Philippians 2:1-11 and message by Rev. Amel Manyon.
BIBLE STUDY Craig Mitchell delivered Part 2 of his Bible Study, reading from Acts 2:42-47 and speaking about how the disciple’s lives were changed at Pentecost and the early church.
Read Craig Mitchell’s bible study - http://growing-disciples.org.au/?p=1464
BUSINESS SESSION
RECOMMENDATIONS AND DECISIONS FOR ORDINATION PROPOSAL 25 Rev. Prof. Andrew Dutney spoke further to this proposal. Following further discussion, to achieve consensus, the proposal was approved by agreement.
P17.36) It was AGREED (BY AGREEMENT) that the Presbytery resolve to:
Authorise the Standing Committee to receive and determine a recommendation from the Pastoral Relations Committee that a candidate be ordained (subject to Reg.2.4.5) when that recommendation is made more than two months before the next scheduled meeting of the Presbytery and Synod.
PRESBYTERY & SYNOD STRUCTURE CONVERSATION The CEO/General Secretary, Rev. Nigel Rogers, invited the gathering to have a conversation in table groups to further ongoing discussions by Standing Committee and the Mission Networks regarding Presbytery structures as the Presbytery and Synod moves into a strategic planning process in 2018.
VIDEO PRESENTATION FROM ENCOUNTER CHURCH – CHURCH PLANT An introduction to Encounter Church including interviews with Church members.
WHITE RIBBON LUNCH Rev. Peter McDonald facilitated a discussion during the lunch break, marking the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
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TJILBRUKE SPRING STIE AT KINGSTON PARK PROPOSAL 15 Sean Weetra spoke further to this proposal.
(P17.37) It was AGREED (BY CONCENSUS) that the Presbytery resolve to:
In covenanting solidarity, protest alongside Congress and concerned members of the Kaurna community about development over or near the Tjilbruke Springs site at Kingston Park, and a) Seek a meeting with the Holdfast Bay Council and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs as soon as possible about this matter. b) Request the Moderator write to the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs expressing ongoing concerns as soon as possible.
PROPOSED NUCLEAR DUMP IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA PROPOSAL 18
(P17.38) It was AGREED (BY AGREEMENT) that the Presbytery resolve to:
Acknowledging the Presbytery and Synod SA’s policy on Nuclear Waste Repository, REFER the proposal to Standing Committee for further consideration and action: “Call on the SA Labor Government to enforce the Nuclear Waste Storage Facility (Prohibition) Act 2000 to prevent a nuclear waste dump being established in South Australia”.
MARRIAGE CONVERSATION – FACILITATION GROUP The Facilitation Group’s (Rob Brown, Diane Holden and Nick Patselis) task was to find common themes and threads, as the first step in a report to go to the Assembly Standing Committee. Acknowledgement that the whole process is to be guided by God through prayer and discernment and a reminder that the conversation is not a theoretical conversation, it is about real people: Who we are as the P/S was clearly expressed; Assembly needs a clear resolution and an agreed process about how to communicate that across the life of the Church; No big surprises; responses reflected our diversity; There are not just two sides, not black and white; Upholding the place of scripture in this conversation, recognising our different interpretations; Diversity celebrated and lamented; Deep desire and over-arching hope for unity; Respectful dialogue; A longing to understand how we can say what we need to say, without causing offence; Call for transparent and clear process in the decision making by the Assembly Standing Committee; Hoping there will be papers outline the definition of marriage and where these have come from;
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Points of difference and overlap between civil/state legalities and the role of the church when it comes to marriage; How can everyone in the life of the Church contribute to the conversation? Consider marriage traditions from all cultural backgrounds; Why young people are disengaged from this process and how can we engage young people in this conversation; Ministry impact, i.e. protection and clarity for ministers; Societal expectations of the Church; Take the time to consider this fully.
FEEDBACK FROM THE SOVERIGNTY AND TREATY DISCUSSION The Covenanting Committee were invited to review the feedback from table groups and assist with the delivery of the feedback to the wider Church.
APY LANDS GENERAL MANAGER APPOINTMENT PROPOSAL 19 Rev. Dean Whittaker spoke to this proposal.
(P17.38) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery resolve to:
Request that the SA Government address concerns raised by current and previous members of the APY Executive and others about Richard King’s appointment, conditions, and actions in his role as APY General Manager.
ECOTHEOLOGY – CONSENSUS PROPOSAL 26
Rev. Sarah Williamson and Rev. Liellie McLaughlin spoke to this proposal; a discussion about our relationship with the environment.
(P17.39) It was AGREED (BY CONSENSUS) that the Presbytery resolve to:
1. ACKNOWLEDGE and thank Uniting College for Leadership & Theology for their present work in the area of eco-theology, and
2. ENCOURAGE Uniting College to continue to reinforce eco-theology as core to ministry training.
2017 Annual Meeting of the Presbytery and Synod Pg 3
Presbytery & Synod SA 23 – 25 November 2017
DECLARATION OF BALLOTS - 2017 In accordance with nominations received and the results of the election, the Chief Scrutineer Mrs Anne Wilson, RECOMMENDS that the Presbytery and Synod DECLARE the following persons to be elected:
PRESBYTERY AND SYNOD STANDING COMMITTEE Members are elected for a two year term. Ballot results Pam Bartholomaeus Ken Burt Leanne Davis Peter Gunn Elizabeth Megaw Bronte Wilson Sean Weetra Alison Whish
PLACEMENTS COMMITTEE 3 VACANCIES ……8 NOMINATIONS Note this is a I year term. These persons also serve as members of Pastoral Relations Committee. Ballot results Sue Page Christine Secombe Bronte Wilson
PARKIN MISSION /PARKIN TRUST Elected persons (ballot not required): Rev. Robyn Caldicott, for a 3 year term, expiring Synod AGM 2020. Tom Adams, for a 3 year term, expiring Synod AGM 2020. Carol Davidson, for a 2 year term, expiring Synod AGM 2019.
CHAIRPERSON OF PLACEMENTS COMMITTEE As no nominations were received, Standing Committee will attend to this vacancy.
ASSEMBLY (Ex officio) Moderator, Rev. Sue Ellis CEO/General Secretary, Rev. Nigel Rogers
Elected pesons: Mr Sean Weetra Mr Jesse Size Rev. Naomi Duke Ms Nicole Mugford
2017 Annual Meeting of the Presbytery and Synod Pg 4
Presbytery & Synod SA 23 – 25 November 2017
Troy Kammermann Ms Candace Champion Mr Tim Littleford Rev. Sean Gilbert Ms Louise Davis Rev. Jennifer (Jenni) Hughes Dr Pam Bartholomaeus Rev. David Hoffman Rev. (John) Andrew Everson Rev. Christa Megaw Ms Kerry Wilson Rev. Dean Whittaker Ms Marian Wicks Rev. Rob Brown Ms Steph Teh Rev. John Hughes Ms Georgia Symonds Rev. Simon Dent Rev. Dr Vicki Balabanski Mr Tim Molineux Rev. Dr Ian Price Mr Ian Dempster Rev. (Deacon) Sandy Boyce Mr Mark Schultz Rev. Andy Hogarth Ms Susan Burt Rev. Benji Callen Mrs Christine Secombe
DECLARATION OF APPOINTMENTS In accordance with nominations received, the Chief Scrutineer, Mrs Anne Wilson DECLARES these persons APPOINTED to the following Committees and Councils:
PROPERTY TRUST & RESOURCES BOARD see per proposal 10
SYNOD COMMITTEE FOR DISCIPLINE For a three year term ending November 2020 Mr John Steele
SYNOD COMMITTEE FOR COUNSELLING For a three year term ending November 2020 Rev. Peter Ryan Rev. Christine Manning Rev. Robyn Caldicott Peter Dowling
ADVISERS For a three-year term ending November 2020 Convenor … Mrs Gwenda Kerley
MODERATOR’S ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Moderator made mention of the many people who put the Presbytery and Synod Annual Meeting together, with a special thank you to Suzi Cousins who is concluding her contract at AWUC.
2017 Annual Meeting of the Presbytery and Synod Pg 5
Presbytery & Synod SA 23 – 25 November 2017
COMMUNION AND CLOSE
The closing service of the 2017 Annual Meeting included a bible reading from the Moderator, 2 Corinthians 3:1-6, a short message from Shane Rayner and Holy Communion.
The Moderator closed the meeting.
2017 Annual Meeting of the Presbytery and Synod Pg 6