Diocese takes first steps
toward transformational change

By Ana Watts

Last June’s synod recognized an urgent need for growth — spiritual, numerical and financial — and called loudly and clearly for the transformational change in this diocese necessary to achieve that growth.

Synod identified the preparation of leaders for change, our personal renewal as Christians and Anglicans, increased mission and ministry in our communities, and a major stewardship initiative as the most effective means of paving the path to change. Already at least a dozen new diocesan initiatives have supported and developed these change priorities.

Even before the summer was over, a clergy conference focused on transformational ministry of self, congregation, world. Consultant and speaker Ed White of the Alban Institute told diocesan clergy: “Transformation is not so much about finding new ways to be the Church as it is about finding ways to recapture and live the values we once had and have lost.” Dr. White highly recommended several books on personal and parish growth. They were recently purchased by the Diocesan Resource Centre and are available to be borrowed.

The new Diocesan Council elected in June focused on transformational change at its very first meeting in early September. Council member Brian Hudson, a professional engineer as well as a project management professional, offered a primer on the subject that helped council members better understand the tasks before them.

Stewardship of the Gospel, leadership and money are essential for life, growth and mission. A New Day diocesan stewardship conference held in Sussex in October and facilitated by Bishop Edward Salmon drove this message home. The retired bishop of South Carolina inspired diocesan clergy at their 2008 conference and is credited with a transformation in clergy relations. With knowledge, integrity, common sense and humour he also inspired the clergy and lay leaders who gathered in Sussex. He called upon them as individuals and parishes to take ownership of their stewardship responsibilities as well as to support diocesan initiatives.

Regular review and evaluation of programs and structures is essential to good stewardship, so Synod 2009 called for such an evaluation for the diocese. In September council adopted roles and responsibilities for the task force appointed to conduct the review.

An imminent stewardship strategy planning session with representatives of General Synod will further bolster the diocesan stewardship initiative and move it toward a full stewardship initiative.

Recent revision of the diocese’s baptismal discipline directive includes resources for baptism practice and preparation, and certainly qualifies as a valuable learning opportunity as we pursue our personal renewal as Christians and Anglicans.

At the most recent Warden’s Day, Archdeacon Geoffrey Hall’s presentation on Anglican Identity was also well received. He recently received an invitation to present it to a parish and was pleased to discover his presentation was fourth in a series on Christian and Anglican renewal. This parish is certainly taking responsibility for its own renewal efforts.

Archdeaconry Greater Chapters play an enhanced role as diocesan groups and organizations work together toward change. They are encouraged to identify visions of their own and plan for their development. Some archdeaconries are already well into this process. Saint John, for example, is actively seeking ways to facility ministry in the city’s south end where, according to Statistics Canada, 43 per cent of households live in extreme poverty and 22 per cent of the population is under 18. The Archdeaconry Greater Chapter recently invited Greg Paul of the Sanctuary Ministry in Toronto to give them advice how they can be more effective in the south end ministry. This is an outstanding example of the kind of mission and ministry in the community synod identified as necessary.

Youth remain a priority in the diocese and the recent announcement that ACOA funding will make it possible to replace the dilapidated staff house at Camp Meldey before the 2010 camping season is a tangible sign of transformation. Combine that good news with news of “better than ever” camping seasons at both Camps Medley and Brookwood, and the signs are encouraging indeed.

Although transformational change is not all about money, programs and initiatives do need to be financially supported. The 2010 Diocesan Shared Ministry Budget approved by Diocesan Council at its Nov. 7 meeting reflects some increased spending to support a ministry with different priorities. There is one $10,000 line item in support of evaluations and another earmarked for leadership training. A further $30,000 gives council some flexibility in order to respond to opportunities and possibilities.

Photos from A New Day, the recent diocesan stewardship conference.

Diocesan Communications
10 November 2009