Synod meets to discuss indigenous representation

ANGLICAN CHURCH DIOCESE OF SYDNEY

MEDIA RELEASE

17 October 2006

Anglican Synod meets again today to discuss indigenous representation on Synod and also the revised Discipline Ordinance

The Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Sydney will continue meeting today from 3.15pm in the Wesley Theatre, 220 Pitt Sydney.

Clergy and lay people from all the parishes of the Diocese represent their parishes and debate issues central to the concerns of the Diocese and the Diocesan Mission.

Today, at 4.30pm the Synod will debate an Ordinance that will allow representatives from the Indigenous churches in the Diocese to attend Synod. These representatives are intended to be elected by the indigenous church members.

Archbishop Peter Jensen has thrown his weight behind the passage of this ordinance, telling Synod members in his Presidential Address yesterday "in 2006 we have the opportunity to arrange to welcome as members of the Synod representatives of our indigenous churches. I believe that the Lord has moved among us in the creation of these churches, and I hope that we do not hesitate to give that ordinance a cordial reception. We can never forget the debt we owe to the first inhabitants of our land."

At 7.00pm this evening Synod will turn its attention to a revised Discipline Ordinance. This will set standards of behaviour for clergy and churchworkers, and is intended to continue to ensure that Anglican churches in the Diocese of Sydney are safe churches for children and vulnerable people.

Mr Philip Gerber, Director of the Diocesean Professional Standards Unit will shepherd this Discipline Ordinance through the Synod processes.

ENDS

CONTACT: Margaret Rodgers (w) 9265 1507 (mobile) 0411 692 499