The Diocese of Wellington will set up a single governance committee to replace the 3Ms structure of Mission, Ministry and Management committees.

A motion to this effect, proposed by Rev John Wilson (Petone), provoked the most heated debate of the Wellington Synod last weekend. 

The trial was recommended after a working group responded to Bishop Justin’s concerns that the existing structure no longer best met the needs of the diocese. 

Rev Colin Datchler (Waiwhetu) opposing the motion, spoke of the Anglican way of doing church.

He said synod was the place to make decisions, and voiced concerns over a lack of clarity in governance, a loss of connection and a lack of mutual discernment. 

Rev Lance Lukin (Defence Chaplain) spoke of being asked to sign a blank cheque. “Governance,” he said, “should be seen to be open and discernible.” He asked: “Show us the plan so we can vote on it with clarity.”

Sue Fordyce (All Saints, Palmerston North) supported the proposal, which aimed for more flexible workable structures, and she argued that the diocese grant space to allow this to go ahead.

Jim Green (Wadestown), who was part of setting up the 3M structure in the late 1990s, supported the motion, asking synod to “go forward in trust and move swiftly.”

Anthony Hill (Chancellor) confirmed that the current governance structure was not changing. Synod remained the governance and strategic body. 

During the morning tea break an amendment to the motion was fashioned, allowing for a small committee to frame key achievement milestones.

The committee will meet with Management Committee on 14th October and report to the diocese within 10 days.

The motion passed in all houses.