The Diocese of Waikato and Taranaki focussed on "looking ahead" at its synod in Hamilton over the weekend.

This was the first synod of the dual episcopacy between Archbishop Philip Richardson (as Bishop of Taranaki) and Bishop Helen-Ann Hartley (Bishop of Waikato).

Synod began with a Eucharist in St Peter's Cathedral. Guests included the Mayor of Hamilton, Julie Hardaker; David Bennett MP; the Roman Catholic Bishop of Hamilton, Dennis Browne; and Colonel Ross Gower of the Salvation Army.

The bishops’ charge outlined a three-year diocesan plan with emphasis on being grounded in prayer, equipped for discipleship, and being connected to the community.

The plan hangs on using the full range of skills and expertise across the diocese, so Standing Committee will now have two co-opted members from each house as well as those elected (for a total of five clergy and five lay).  

A motion for the church to hold a referendum on Motion 30 from this year’s General Synod was defeated.

Motions opposing liberalization of the abortion laws and legalization of euthanasia were passed.

A motion endorsing vulnerable older citizens' right to secure, affordable housing also was passed.

The Hamilton City Council and other territorial authorities throughout the two bishoprics will be asked to increase their social housing stock for vulnerable citizens.