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The purpose of the
Committee on Church Order is to “…facilitate Presbytery’s review of
proposed changes to the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.), these bylaws and standing rules of the presbytery; to
promote the integrity of session records and facilitate Presbytery’s
review of them.” This committee formerly was called Ecclesiastical
Affairs.
The Committee currently
is served by the following persons: the Rev. James Steiner (Chair),
Elder George Betz, Elder Anne Blasdel, the
Rev. Robert Clary,
the Rev. Steve Gorman, Elder Pat Griffin,
the Rev. Lance Jones,
Elder Jack Plattner, Elder Connie Smiley, Elder Janis Adams
(Staff Representative).
2008 was a busy year
for the Committee. An overture to amend the language of G-6.106b
was recommended by Committee and passed by the Presbytery in
February. Similar language, known as the Boston Amendment, was
approved at the General Assembly and sent back to the presbyteries
for ratification.
The Committee reviewed
and made recommendations on ten amendments and four ecumenical
statements approved by the General Assembly. The Committee was also
involved in determining the process to discuss the various
amendments.
In reviewing amendments
and overtures, the Committee often contacts stakeholders and
interested parties to get input. We make every effort to make our
recommendations based on constitutional issues, and leave
theological issues aside. The Committee’s deliberations and
recommendations must be seen as balanced and transparent.
At the request of
Council, the Committee supported a Task Force to review and revise
the Presbytery’s By-Laws – the revised document was approved at the
September 2008 meeting of Presbytery. The Committee hopes to tackle
our Standing Rules in 2009.
At the Congregational
level, the Committee holds five “Minute Review Sessions” across the
Presbytery during the year. These events are attended by Clerks of
Session and Committee members, and minutes and roll books are
reviewed. The events are an excellent opportunity for support, to
have questions answered, and for fellowship.
The Committee has been
privileged to serve the Presbytery.
The Rev. James R.
Steiner |
