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132 Obtaining approvals for new ventures

132.1 Denominational procedures

Each denomination has its own pattern of handling the formation of specific Cooperative Ventures. A general understanding and appreciation of these procedures by all parties concerned will avoid confusion and hopefully temper the moments of frustration! The importance of constant referral to respective regional/national courts of the Partners is that it enables them to raise issues and ideas at the formative stages of the negotiations rather than when an agreement has taken shape and the local churches have identified and committed themselves to its specific structures and forms.

The procedures pertaining to each of the five Partners are as follows

132.2 Anglican

Before entering into negotiations to work out agreements with other Partners, parishes are required to consult

  • the archdeacon
  • the bishop
  • the standing committee of the diocese, which will refer any proposed agreement to its ecumenical sub?committee before making a decision on the matter.

132.3 Associated Churches of Christ

Churches considering entering into Cooperative Ventures should consult with

  • the Administration
  • the Church Extension and Property Trust Board (where property matters are involved).

132.4 Congregational Union

The local Church advises the district meeting for information and discussions.

At the same time the local church advises the secretary of the Congregational Union.

The standing committee of the Congregational Union could be advised but would strictly only be involved when property matters were discussed.

Where necessary the assembly would make some decision regarding property, as the Congregational Union of New Zealand are the trustees for all church property.

132.5 Methodist

Agreements involving Methodist participation require the following approval

  • The parish meeting (quarterly meeting).
  • The district synod.
  • The Mission Resourcing Unit.
  • The Administration Division.

Note: Before the Administration Division and Mission Resourcing Unit request the President to sign the agreement on behalf of the Methodist Church of New Zealand they require the following.

Mission Resourcing Unit - the results of a referendum among electoral roll members. Adherents may vote - but the results must clearly state the responses of both members and adherents.

Administration Division - A completed property Schedule, and where requested, a completed Deed of Trust.

It is important that both divisions be consulted as early as possible in the agreement drafting process. Unless they are consulted in the early stages, it is often necessary to rewrite sections, which creates frustration within the drafting body,

132.6 Presbyterian

When negotiating the setting up of a Cooperative Venture the following steps should be taken -

  • Discussion and consultation between session or parish council and congregation about the type and nature of the cooperation envisaged and approval for negotiations to take place.
  • Notification and advice to presbytery and Joint Regional Committee.
  • Enquiries and information to the Assembly Executive Secretary at an early stage.
  • The Mission Resource Team and/or church property trustees should be consulted where buildings and/or property matters are involved.

Note: The Presbyterian Church has approved four categories of cooperation: ie. reciprocal membership; joint use of buildings, union parishes, cooperating parishes. Approval for other forms of Cooperative Ventures may be given. The most suitable type should be chosen.