625 Linking with the parish - JRC liaison person

(See 122.3 (e)(f))

625.1 Preamble

While the role of the JRC is reasonably spelt out, that of the JRC liaison person seems to be nowhere precisely defined. He or she is appointed in the expectation that they will be, or will become:

a) Appropriate, and acceptable, to the particular parish.

b) Knowledgeable about the parish and its functioning.

c) Known to the parish.

d) In regular contact with the parish and its ministers.

e) Present (by invitation) at the parish annual meeting and any special parish function, e.g. inductions, anniversaries, farewells to a departing minister etc.

f) Concerned to ensure that the parish and parish minister appreciates that the wider church does care, that Cooperative Ventures are not 'orphans', and that the liaison person should be a first point (or person) of reference available for consultation.

g) Knowledgeable about Forum and local JRC initiatives and able to provide a continuing link between these bodies and the parish.

625.2 Duties

a) Arrange with the regional court of the minister, an orientation involving the Partners in the Cooperative Venture. (See 423.6)

b) Arrange a lay/clergy dialogue with the minister and parish. (See 423.7)  Ensure that appropriate follow-up occurs with all parties after the dialogue has concluded.

c) Convene the five-yearly visitation to the Cooperative Venture. (See 413)

d) Arrange with the JRC to request a position on the nominating committee or board of nomination appointed to seek a new minister in the Cooperative Venture.

625.3 Further contact

The occasional friendly call, or visit, by a liaison person to the parish minister or attendance at a parish worship service can help to maintain the liaison presence in a parish without in any way suggesting JRC interference in parish affairs. Liaison, to be effective, needs to be two way ? and active rather than passive.

Note: Where a UDC exists, appropriate adjustments may be required for the liaison role.