Posted Thursday 12 June 2008
The Primus welcomed fraternal guests to General Synod.
General Synod approved the Minutes of the meeting of the General Synod 2007. This was proposed by Professor Patricia Peattie and seconded by Ian Stewart.
The Secretary General announced the process for elections (Mission and Ministry Board Convenership; Mission and Ministry Board Membership; Administration Board Membership; Clergy Discipline Tribunal Membership and other Convenerships).
Professor Patricia Peattie proposed and Ian Stewart seconded Motion 2 'That this Synod accept the Annual Report and Accounts (see link below) of the General Synod of the Scottish Episcopal Church for the financial year ended 31 December 2007. This was carried unanimously.
The afternoon session started with a a reflection on the forthcoming Lambeth Conference by the Bishops of Edinburgh and St Andrews, Dunkeld & Dunblane. This was followed by an overview by Dr Anne pankhurst of the pre-Lambeth visits of overseas bishops and spouses.
The Rev Canon James Milne then presented background to the Anglican Covenant discussions stating that he believes there are good reasons why the Scottish Episcopal Church should remain part of the covenant process. He then proposed, and the Bishop of St Andrews, Dunkeld & Dunblane seconded, Motion 3 but this Motion was amended by Synod to read "That this Synod affirm an 'in principle' commitment to continue to participate actively in discussions regarding the future shape of the Anglican Communion at this time (without necessarily committing itself to the concept of a convenant)". A number of people spoke for and against the amended Motion, before it was carried.
In presenting the background to the Motions on Congregational Status Rev Jeremy Auld defined the description of Rector and Priest in Charge and incumbency and independent status and the implications of the proposed changes to Canon 36. Following some discussion Motions 6 to 16 were carried.
After a short break, Synod resumed to hear from Professor Patricia Peattie on Charity Regulations and the background to Motion 18. This Motion was carried.
Following a presentation from Rev Canon Cliff Piper on the Church's three tools of communications (inspires, website, College of Bishops) the day was brought to a close by a presentation from Rev Darren McFarland, Liturgy Committee Convener; followed by Evening Office.
Category: General Synod 2008
