Reflections UCANZ

The plan is to have leaders from all levels across the partner churches and CVs (Co-operating Ventures) present in the same space to talk about our future in ways that will positively chart a course for the years ahead.

We are lining up Bishops, Presbytery Executive Officers and Moderators, Geographical Synod Superintendents, along with representatives of CVs to all be able to engage profitably together over three days. Add into the mix Presidents, Assembly Moderators, and General Secretaries, and we have a prescription for a lively encounter.

One leader has expressed a fear that it could simply turn into a ‘polite conversation.’ We are wanting to avoid this by working on a programme that will be engaging and gutsy, forward-looking, and hope filled.

The forum will commence at 9am at the Onehunga Co-operating Parish, on Saturday 31 May.

At this point, rather than key-note speakers, we are planning a drama - one to draw in all participants, one to hold up a mirror to all of us, one in which we can identify ourselves with both our graces and strengths, as well as our foibles and liabilities. All done with generosity of spirit, warmth, and humour. As well as caucusing opportunities within partner groups, the remainder of the forum will be a response. The conversations will take place between leaders at all levels from grassroots representatives to senior partner leaders.

On Saturday evening a simple, yet challenging, simulation game for all participants will link with the theme of the forum.

Sunday evening will be given over to the UCANZ BGM (Biennial General Meeting) where Officers for the coming two years are appointed and the Standing Committee and Ministry Facilitator report to the membership on their work over the previous two years.

We expect to complete our forum around lunchtime on Monday 2 June. We have a bed and breakfast booking for the St Francis Friary in Hillsborough available on a first-in-first-served basis for those coming from out of town. Booking details will be available soon.

We are anticipating a once-in-a-generation event. Missing it could risk missing history in the making.