In a lively debate, General Synod members discussed amongst other things, Local Ordained Ministry. Mr Godfrey Brothistle (Ferns) said we have of different forms of ministry and last night we had a wonderful service with a wonderful sermon. He said that in his diocese a rector had opened the Church and was surprised at the numbers who came. He urged that Bishops to encourage services without liturgy and let the laity say what they want from services.

Rev Andrew Forster (Armagh) recommended the mid–career programme to fellow clergy, saying it was relaxing and invigorating and most refreshing. He thanked the Commission for organising it. HE also acknowledged the work of retired clergy.

The Rev Paul Willoughby emphasised that in rural areas everywhere we look there are little glimmers of light.

Ven Wayne Carney highlighted some of the issues rural ministry. Some people felt that those structures were given by God and never to change. He urged that people work with local people to ‘make rural ministry really happen.

Rev Janice Ellison (Connor) said she was concerned that Local Ministry should not be seen as for financial reasons. If we are to go forward with local ministry it must be because this is where God leading us. She urged that the Local Ministers be trained centrally. She also urged that we look at the transferability of local ministry. How sad for someone she said if a person doing work that God has called them to can no longer do this work if they cannot do it in another area .

At her last General Synod, Agnes Young (Connor) typically warm and witty address recalled singing hymns in a pub and said you can praise God anywhere.

The Ven David McClay (Down) welcomed locally ordained ministry but urged Synod members not to overlook those lay people who are currently working paid or unpaid.
Closing the debate, the Ven Leslie Stevenson thanked all for the interesting and lively debate. He denied that ordained local ministry was entirely about finance. He said it was about meeting the pastoral and sacramental needs of the Church and equipping them in the needs of the Church. 

The Synod also considered the issue of self–sustaining ministry and approved a motion proposed by Dean Katharine Poulton. Seconding the motion, the Rt Revd Ferran Glenfield, Bishop of Kilmore said that the discussion was about local and collaborative ministry and how to realise leadership at a local level. Leadership is key he said. He said that local self–sustaining ministry rises and falls on the reception by local clergy. The Rev David Huss said it was an enticing prospect and urged that the candidates should receive in depth theological training.

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