LCNZ Council of Synod news – December 2024
Significant items that were discussed at the Council of Synod (CoS) meeting held by Teams on 10 December 2024
Meeting opening items
- Phil Husband led devotion and karakia with a Meditation by Cecil H Skibbe: Letters1 Vol 1 item 17 – the Difference That Made a Difference – For unto us a Child is born. Isaiah 53:3-7,9-10
- Members share minute for mission items
Standard items
- Bishop Richard reported on number of items under action.
- Members of CoS confirmed their conflict of interest schedule, police vetting checks and safe church training were up to date.
Agenda items
- SAC presented their annual report and Pastors’ salary schedule. This included a salary increase of 3.8% and was approved.
- CoS received a report from the Bishop Taskforce. This team has been tasked with investigating and making recommendations to CoS on the process, timing and ultimately election of a NZ domiciled Bishop. A separate report is to be distributed to the Church.
- Spice retreat organisers have advised the dates of the next retreat being the weekend of 31 March. It will be held in Auckland and will be attended by the spouses of the pastors.
- CoS have received notifications of the restructure of the LCA PSD. They will be working with the LCA on how this will work for New Zealand congregations.
As part of the restructure the current Professional Standards Officer, Denise Muschamp, has completed her service in this role on 13 December. Council acknowledged her excellent service with appreciation. - The Council received a report from the review team who reviewed District Administrator Debbie Venz’s performance, appointed her as the Finance Administrator and approved her new pay scale.
- The Council approved the meeting timetable for 2025. See details here: Events from February 18 – August 12
Meeting ending
- The meeting ended in prayer led by Bishop Richard
- The next meeting will be by Teams on Tuesday 18 February 2025.
Rev Andy Marr
Chairperson Council of Synod
January 2025
