No images? Click here The Way Forward working groups are close to finalising the framework which will be put to General Synod in October as a proposal for how the LCANZ might operate as one church with two practices of ordination. Feedback on three frameworks from across the church closed on 23 February. Comments from almost 270 submissions were analysed to help the working groups shape the final framework. The General Church Board and College of Bishops are expected to approve it for release to the church in late April or early May. Early indicationsA fundamental element of any proposal for the ‘way forward’ is a change in the teaching of the LCANZ to allow the ordination of women. This means that Thesis of Agreement 6.11 would need to be changed according to guidelines adopted by our church in 1975. Feedback has indicated that LCANZ members prefer a framework that minimises change, perceived division and cost. A majority wants congregations to continue to have the autonomy to issue prayerful and informed calls to whomever they deem most fit to serve them, whether they are men or women. Some members have expressed concerns about pastors having to publicly declare their standpoint on ordination candidacy. Another theme emerging from the feedback is the desire to fellowship with a like-minded community. Bishop Paul Smith said, 'Throughout this time of study, reflection and conversation, we trust that the Lord of the church is guiding us, to bear fruit that will last for the sake of his gospel’. Your resources We're encouraged by the requests we receive for resources to help members engage their congregations in the Way Forward conversation. We're building our resources week by week. They include conversation starters, prayer petitions, and ways to promote the Way Forward project. Please take a look at the Resources page and let us know if there's something else you need. Pastoral CareIn a year of challenges and opportunities, the College of Bishops, in partnership with the Pastoral Care Working Group of the Way Forward project, have carefully considered how to pastorally care for our people. As we listened to your greatest concerns, there emerged a need to provide a pastoral care program that can be sustained beyond 2024 to support, encourage and empower members of the LCANZ. For more information, visit the new webpage and check back regularly for updates and new resources.In this video, the College of Bishops presents a message of hope in times of change, uncertainty and anxiety. We invite you to watch this video and share it with others who are seeking guidance and hope as we prepare for the General Synod and the decision on the Way Forward proposal. Please find a time to show this during or after a worship service. Don't forget to prayYou are encouraged to pray for the unity of our church, during congregational worship, in your family and private devotion time, and whenever you meet with each other about the Way Forward project. Pray especially for God's will in all things, for wisdom, and for peace as we 'bear with one another in love' (Eph 4:1,2). Click on the link for petitions especially written for this time in our church's life. You are receiving this email because you signed up to receive it, you have engaged with the Way Forward project in some way, or the project relates to the responsible office you hold in the LCANZ. To unsubscribe from this list, click here. To change your email address, click here. ![]() 197 Archer Street North Adelaide SA 5006 |