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Update

<typohead type=2>Communications Manager</typohead>

This position has been filled temporarily by Tina Callcut. In relation to a new appointment we have interviewed applicants and are presently reference checking. Further information will be sought and then a decision made about whether to recommend the favoured person for appointment by the Council of Assembly.

<typohead type=2>Financial Services</typohead>

As reported elsewhere, the new accounting system is installed and operating. We have employed two short-term helpers to address the enormous backlog of work causing concern. This will help us get to the point of responding to correspondence in a timely and appropriate manner.

<typohead type=2>Assembly Assessment</typohead>

Letters have gone out about this. If you have queries please contact the persons named in the letter. You can obtain a copy from the treasurer or session clerk of your local congregation.

<typohead type=2>General Assembly 2004</typohead>

Preparation is well underway towards the next Assembly. Parishes due to appoint an elder commissioner are encouraged to be active in finding one and advising the presbytery as soon as possible. Online registration through the Presbyterian website will soon be available at
www.presbyterian.org.nz/assembly2004.

<typohead type=2>Judicial Appeal</typohead>

Extensive media coverage has focussed on a decision of the Christchurch Presbytery to dissolve the pastoral tie between the Reverend Fitifiti Luatua and the parish of St George’s Iona. Mr Luatua appealed the decision to an Assembly Judicial Commission which met in April and is about to deliver its decision.

<typohead type=2>Moderator Designate</typohead>

The Nominating Committee has sent out letters calling for each Session and Parish Council, Presbytery and Union District Council to recommend one of the ten nominees for appointment as Moderator-Designate.

Sexual Misconduct Complaints Guide

The new guide for people involved in managing the sexual misconduct complaints process has been published and is about to be distributed. Please contact the Assembly Office if you would like a copy.

<typohead type=2>Synod of Otago and Southland</typohead>

The Synod had its annual meeting in April and elected the Reverend Selwyn Yeoman of Mosgiel as Moderator.

E noho ra

APW "Growing into Change"

At the recent national meeting of APW the following were affirmed as personnel to lead the APW in the next period of change in engaging all women in the Church in mission.

<typohead type=2>Policy and Administration:</typohead>

Convenor: Mrs Natalie Watkin, 94 Gowing Dr, Meadowbank, Auckland, Ph (09) 5280507

Deputy Convenor: Mrs Mary North, 1a Hayward Rd, Ngatea, Ph (07) 8677201

Secretary: Mrs Margaret Clow, 11 Freemont St, Chartwell, Hamilton, Ph (07) 8536095

Treasurer: Mrs Diane Croft, 26 Woodlands Rd, RD1, Katikati, Ph (07) 5491007

<typohead type=2>Convenors:</typohead>

United Nations: Mrs Mary McIntyre 286 Chelmsford St, Invercargill, Ph.(03) 2179534

Missions: Mrs Alison Linscott, 42 Maltby Ave Timaru, Ph (03) 6884317
Communications: Mrs Jan Veitch, 49 Paierau Rd, RD1, Masterton, Ph (06) 3709261

Education: Rev Johanna Warren, 48 Dillon St, Blenheim Ph (03) 5791164

Introduction Workgroup Update

As I prepare this update we have received two parish profiles. I am sure some more Boards of Nomination will consider commending one of our life and ministry experienced Ordinands to a Session or Parish Council.

Nominators  - "We will be in touch!"  While 1 May was the close for Parish Profiles to be considered in the first round, late profiles will be most welcome.

On Friday 7 May and Saturday 8 May we interviewed the graduating Ordinands. The Work Group conducted these in a manner to simulate an interview with a Board of Nomination. It was a delight to hear of the hopes, strengths, areas for growth, needs and the eagerness of the Ordinands to serve communities, congregations and churches.

When an Ordinand is offered a Parish Profile they have a week or so to consider if they want to proceed further with the introduction. If they do, then the Ordinand’s Profile is offered to the Board for consideration. If the Board does not want to take it further the Nominator advises the Convener of the Work Group. If the Board wants to meet the Ordinand the Nominator follows the usual course for advancing a Call.

Please remember the Work Group and the Ordinands in prayer on the 19 May. This is the day we discern possible introductions and advise Ordinands of their position.

Convener:
Geoffrey Skilton   (03) 435 5357 
geoffrey.skilton(at)paradise.net.nz

Book of Order Rewrite

Draft chapters of the proposed new Book of Order are available for comment on the www.presbyterian.org.nz  website.

The password for access is available from richardd(at)presbyterian.org.nz.

Please take the opportunity to view the material and make suggestions.

Chris Nichol  
Book of Order Rewrite Task Group