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Hosted by the Hull West Circuit Rosemary Harrison, This year the date, venue and timing of Synod were especially planned to coincide with the 25th Humber Bridge Cross which raises money for Christian Aid, itself celebrating its 50th anniversary. Synod therefore was timed to enable members to join the bridge walk. May 12th was also specially chosen to launch "The Wilberforce Way Walk" planned and written by John Eckersley. Rev Dr Inderjit Bhogal, the inspiration behind the walk, spoke at Synod before leading twenty walkers from Hull to Pocklington, walking over two days There were special events at Beverley and Pocklington, the former including Hindu dancers and the latter African musicians, both excellent cultural experiences. spoke of the "Set all Free" initiative, which seeks to address issues of modern day slavery. He referred to the strand of "Our Calling" which refers to the need to challenge injustice. Each individual is created in the image of God and, therefore, is special and sacred. He spoke of the long struggle by William Wilberforce and others to abolish slavery. Wilberforce had been encouraged by John Wesley who himself had been challenged by the writings of Olaudah Equiano, whose book Inderjit encouraged everyone to read. Today there is more slavery then ever before; debt bondage, child labour, cheap products and poorly paid house cleaners. A lasting legacy is that of racism. A recent BBC programme highlighted the plight of migrant workers in our area living 14 to a room and being charged £50 a week rent. However all of us can do something to bring about change. This has been seen in the "Fair Trade" and "Make Poverty History" campaigns. Synod was encouraged to support "Set all Free" in order "To serve the present age, our calling to fulfil." Revd Charles New promoted the book which outlines the walk and shows how it can be divided into more manageable routes; it costs £7. Contact John Eckersley 01904 410389. Another key element of Synod related to the proposed Connexional changes, many of which you will already be aware. Stephen Burgess, assisted by William Swires, presented information about the proposed changes which will be brought to Conference this year. He traced the origins of the change back to proposals from Conference in 2002 and to the work on Priorities between 2005 and 2008. These aim to model and advocate priorities; to create structures which are flexible and innovative; to help the Church to aspire to high standards; to abolish unnecessary red tape; to listen attentively and to communicate widely. Work has been done through Ground Clearing projects, Filter panels and discussion within the Joint Secretaries group. The present Connexional Team will be reduced from140 to 100 and, with more effective management structures, will focus on what it alone can contribute to Methodist Church life. Other work will be managed at District and local level. The new structures will be implemented from September 1st 2008 Stephen stressed the fact that although some work will no longer be managed centrally this does not mean it is less important; rather it shows confidence that others have the skills to manage that area of work. It is inevitable that greater demands will be placed on Districts. However I am constantly impressed by the commitment and talents of District members and am confident that we can rise to the challenge.
The "Methodist Recorder" has contained information hot off the press and the District ( ) and Connexional websites () enable you to access detailed information. If you would like to receive the latest releases from either the District or the Connexional Office register for the Electronic News service. |
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