2.41 Recommendation LMA-019 (A&P 2022, p. 202, as amended, p. 24)That the above survey and report, along with the previous survey and report on “The Nature and Impact of Long-term Pulpit Vacancies” be commended to presbyteries, sessions and congregations for study and reflection and that presbyteries, sessions and congregations, be encouraged to experiment and innovate in the models of ministry they use to address the challenges outlined in the report.
2.41 Recommendation LMA-019 (A&P 2022, p. 202, as amended, p. 24)That the above survey and report, along with the previous survey and report on “The Nature and Impact of Long-term Pulpit Vacancies” be commended to presbyteries, sessions and congregations for study and reflection and that presbyteries, sessions and congregations, be encouraged to experiment and innovate in the models of ministry they use to address the challenges outlined in the report.
For reference, here are the reports from 2015 and 2021
| 2015 Report | 2021 Report |
The Presbytery of Northern Saskatchewan is in the process of exploring an innovative project that involves congregational support as well as Presbytery involvement. The Presbytery of Assiniboia has a committee working with a number of congregations on possibilities for the future.
First Church, Regina sent an overture to General Assembly regarding elders serving in positions such as Interim Moderator. It was referred to the Clerks of General Assembly. At the 2024 Assembly, the Clerks presented possible legislation which will be circulated to sessions and presbyteries for study and report.
Consideration of these reports suggests that bold and innovative solutions need to be tried in presbyteries, including
Multiple Churches in a Cluster
Online/livestreaming
Online ministry
Interim Moderators – using resources we have, ordained or not
General presbyter