Opening the debate on the report of the Joint Group on Pioneer Training and Development which encourages the development of new pioneer ministry, the Revd Ted Woods (Dublin) said that pioneer ministry was needed in both urban and rural areas but emphasised that it was no threat to current ministry formations.

Captain C Taylor formally seconded the motion. 

The Bishop of Meath emphasised that Mission is ecumenical. While commending the motion he said that mission should never be done for one denomination for one denomination. He urged that the vision should be expanded. The Bishop of Clogher said “it has always been our intention in the Theological Institution to engage critically and creatively with modern Ireland...my one concern and key is that this should not be clericalised...the institute would stand foursquare behind this.”

Andrew McNeile (Dublin) said he “completely, wholeheartedly agreed” with the Bishop of Meath. “If we are going to make a difference with gifts that are old and new.” Commending the work in Rathmines, he noted the blessing of the Roman Catholic priest in the parish. He urged Synod to welcome the motion “wholeheartedly and ecumenically.”

Replying to the points the Revd Ted Woods said the objective was to build up the Kingdom of God, not just one denomination.

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