Following the vote, Stated Clerk Gradye Parsons commented, “The whole vision is to empower presbyteries and synods. We’ve had committees to study these issues over the years. This commission can act and really help the governing bodies.” He also mentioned that needs are greater now, “resources, both human and financial, are strained and the recession has brought these needs that much quicker.”
The commission will have the ability, at the request of such a governing body, to allow that presbytery or synod to unite with another governing body or otherwise reconfigure itself. These shifts in the make-up of governing bodies would be the result of “the prayerful deliberations of presbyteries and synods struggling to be more faithful, more missional, and more effective stewards of their resources,” according to the approved version.
While still in committee at the General Assembly meeting much of the discussion of the recommendation centered on the powers to be given to the commission. There were some concerns that such a commission may have too much power, with an ability to manipulate presbyteries or synods at will. However, the final amended proposal adopted by the assembly makes clear that the commission may act only at the request of, and in consultation with, a middle governing body. A presbytery, for example, would have to vote upon, and approve, the request for the commission to act on its behalf.
While still in committee, there was concern that the commission be theologically diverse. Julia Leeth, minister from Santa Barbara Presbytery, was especially concerned about this issue. “I am all about building bridges. How can we ensure that there is broad theological representation on this commission?” she asked. Her proposed amendment was included in the recommendation the full assembly approved.
Once the recommendation reached the assembly, there were still some fears expressed that a commission may have too much power. Young Adult Advisory Delegate Breeann Wright, of Stockton Presbytery, said her concern was that “this takes a great amount of power and places it in the hands of a small number of people.”
These fears were answered in discussion and with the clear limitations placed in the motion. Cliff Lyda, minister from Chicago Presbytery and moderator of the Middle Governing Bodies Issues committee, pointed out that “the focus of this commission is not one of going out looking for trouble. The focus is on how it might help, how it can assist with needs in a timely way.”
The commission will also oversee the Special Committee on the Administrative Review of the Synod of Boriquen in Puerto Rico (SCARB). The commission will be appointed by the moderator of the 218th General Assembly, Bruce Reyes-Chow, and by Cynthia Bolbach, moderator of the 219th General Assembly, in consultation with the General Assembly Nominating Committee. They will be required to meet representational guidelines as outlined in the current Book of Order.
The hardships of middle governing bodies have been discussed in the church for years. The pressures of shrinking membership, financial tightening, and new forms of communication are needs the General Assembly has answered with those struggling governing bodies in mind. With the formation of this commission, middle governing bodies now have assistance to act in reconfiguring their ministries.
