Day 1
Bill seeks to ensure timely communications in nominations to incumbency
A Bill seeking to ensure timely communication both to the nominee and to those who have not been nominated to an incumbency has been presented to General Synod this evening (Thursday September 30).
Bill No 4 seeks to ensure that clergy who are nominated to a parish (or parishes) are informed promptly and to allow an element of flexibility for the bishop giving that person time to reach a decision, whilst at the same time ensuring that the Board of Nomination acts in an efficient and a timely fashion.
Proposing Bill No 4, Hazel Corrigan (Hon Sec) said that the Commission on Ministry noted that from time to time announcements of appointments to parishes had appeared on social media before any other candidates who may have been considered for the position were informed. “The Commission feels it is good practice, in all forms of life, to inform candidates, who have not been selected to an appointment, in as timely a fashion as possible and before a public announcement is made,” she stated.
The Bill was seconded by Wilfred Baker.
Members of Synod agreed that the Bill should proceed to the next stages and it will receive its third reading on Saturday morning.