Standing Committee Minutes 16 February 2018 · 16 February 2018 SC MINUTES Standing Committee 16...

Standing Committee 16 February 2018 –Minutes Pg 1

Standing Committee Minutes

16 February 2018

Membership: Membership: Ex-officio Chair Sue Ellis - Moderator, Rob Brown – Interim CEO/General

Secretary, Deidre Palmer-Ex-Moderator, Peter Battersby, Synod Property Officer & Presbytery Treasurer,

Mark Kickett-UAICC Regional Council appointment, Elected Members Margaret Brown, Bronte Wilson, Peter

Gunn, Elizabeth Megaw, Anne Hewitt, Ian Dempster, Bruce Ind, Lauren Andris, Alison Whish, Ken Burt,

Leanne Davis, Pam Bartholomaeus, Sean Weetra Co-opted members - none, Resourcing Members (non-

voting) – Philip Gardner, Malcolm Wilson, Andrew Dutney, Chris Headland (Observer) Bindy Taylor, Guests:

Rev. Dr Ian Price, Prof. Kaye Roberts-Thomson, Assoc. Prof. Vivienne Brand & Rosina Hislop, (Minutes)

Tracey Bost

Apologies: Ian Dempster, Mark Kickett, Sean Weetra

Reference # 1.0 WELCOME

The Moderator welcomed all to the meeting, with a special welcome to Rev Rob Brown

as Interim CEO/General Secretary, to Chris Headland as Deputy EO, UnitingCare and

Rev Anne Hewitt currently in a supply position within the Presbytery and Synod Office.

The Moderator opened the meeting with an Acknowledgement of Country:

“We acknowledge the Kaurna people, whom God has placed as the original custodians of this

place on which we meet. We acknowledge the wisdom of their Elders, both past and present and

honour their continuing culture, and pray that we might all work together for reconciliation and

justice in this nation”.

1.1 Devotions

Pam Bartholomaeus led the meeting in devotions speaking about how events challenge

the way we see others and the world.

1.2 Pastoral Matters

The Moderator prayed for pastoral concerns.

1.3 Attendance/Apologies

As shown above.

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1.4 Conflict of Interest / Interest Declaration

a. Note:

i. The Moderator Rev Sue Ellis declared an interest in 5.5.1.1 (as a

member of Seeds), 5.6.1 (Moderator/General Secretary Roles Review)

and 5.7.1 (General Secretary Position Description)

ii. Resolve that the Moderator remain in the Chair for these discussions.

b. Note:

i. Peter Battersby declared an interest in 5.3.1.1.9 (UC Kapunda Board

appointment)

ii. Dealt with as a Consent Agenda item.

16 February 2018 SC MINUTES


c. Note:

i. Ken Burt declared an interest in 5.1.3.1-2 (familial connection to

Seymour College)

ii. Resolve that he remain in the meeting but not vote.

d. Note:

i. Elizabeth Megaw declared an interest in relation to 5.9.1.1 (General

Secretary’s JNC)

ii. Resolve that she absent herself from the meeting.

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1.5 Approval of Agenda

It was AGREED that the Presbytery and Synod Standing Committee resolve to:

1. APPROVE the Agenda, including the following Consent Agenda items:

1.7 – budgetary consideration

1.8 – receive reports

2.1 – approval of previous minutes

2.2 – action list

5.1.1 (b) - CEO/General Secretary’s Liaison Group

5.1.3.(3 – 11) – UnitingCare Board appointments/minor governance changes

5.1.4 (1 – 4) – Mission Network membership and UCAF membership

5.5.1 (2 & 3 ) – PR&MP decisions including UCity Uniting Church

5.8.1 – SA Roman Catholic/Uniting Church Dialogue Group report

5.10.1 – CEO/General Secretary’s (Rev Nigel Rogers) Appraisal Report

1.6 Priority Order of Business

(fixed order 4 pm) - Rev. Dr Ian Price & Prof. Kaye Roberts-Thomson

(fixed order 5 pm) - Assoc. Prof. Vivienne Brand (Chair, Seymour Governance

Committee) & Rosina Hislop (Chair, Seymour Board)

Otherwise, as per Consent Agenda.

1.7 Process

As part of the deliberative process, fully consider the budgetary and missional aspects in

accordance with the Strategic Plan brought before Standing Committee.

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1.8 Receive Reports


RECEIVE all reports as provided (electronic and hard copy) in the Standing Committee

business papers 16 February 2018.

2.0 MINUTES AND ACTION LIST

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2.1 Approval of Previous Minutes


APPROVE the Minutes of the Presbytery and Synod Standing Committee Meeting

8 December 2017.



2.2 Action List (Actions Taken Since Previous Meeting)

See Action List.

3.0 CORRESPONDENCE

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3.1 Receive correspondence

It was AGREED that the Presbytery and Synod Standing Committee resolve to

RECEIVE the correspondence as listed:

1. 271117 – Lt from Stuart McMillan re Mapoon Appeal.

2. Nov 17 – Presidential Ruling No 33 regarding Tem of the Moderator.

3. 191217 – Lt from Colleen Geyer re Proposals to 15th Assembly.

4. 191217 – Lt from Colleen Geyer re Synod reports to 15th Assembly.

5. Dec 17 & Jan 18 – Four letters re confidential decision from Dec 17 SC.

6. 110118 – Lt from UC Foundation Grants Committee re List of Grants.

7. 270118 – Annual Report from Roman Catholic/Uniting Church Dialogue Group.

8. 070218 – Lt from Stuart McMillan re Indigenous Education.

9. Feb 2018 – Submission to the Expert Panel on Religious Freedom (includes

Discussion Paper and Draft Outline of edits).

10. 160218 - Background Paper Redress.

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3.2 Action from Correspondence


1. Forward correspondence re: Mapoon Appeal to the Resources Board.

2. Forward correspondence re: Presidential Ruling to Secretariat.

3. Note the Information from Assembly re: 15th Assembly.

4. Note the Information from Assembly re: 15th Assembly.

5. Forward correspondence to Interim CEO/General Secretary and

Pastoral Relations for follow up.

6. Forward correspondence from the Foundation Grants Committee to the

Resources Board for advice and follow up with Assembly in regard to

the National Congress Review Report.

7. See 5.8.1 (Report from the UC/RC Dialogue Group.

8. Refer this correspondence to the EO UnitingCare and Moderator.

9. Note the information re: submission on Religious Freedom.

10. Refer to Chris Headland and Deidre Palmer to prepare a presentation to

the Standing Committee and Property Trust.



4.0 STRATEGIC MOMENT

4.1 Several major discussion items already on the agenda.

5.0 STANDING REPORTS

5.1 Governance, Innovation and Communication

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5.1.1 CEO/General Secretary’s Report (Transition Plan)

The Interim CEO/General Secretary provided an update on aspects of the Transition

Plan (transfer of work from the Ex CEO/General Secretary to the Interim CEO/General

Secretary) and spoke to the establishment of a CEO/General Secretary’s Liaison Group

It was AGREED that the Synod Standing Committee resolve to:

ENDORSE the Terms of Reference, (see Appendix 1), to establish the Interim

CEO/General Secretary’s Liaison Group during the Interim CEO/General Secretary’s

placement.

APPOINT the following people to the initial CEO/General Secretary’s Liaison Group:

Elizabeth Megaw

Rev Sue Page

Dr Peter Gunn

Rev John Hughes

5.1.2 Associate General Secretary’s Report

No report. The Associate General Secretary is currently in the position of Interim

CEO/General Secretary.

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5.1.3 UnitingCare Report

Assoc. Prof. Vivienne Brand (Chair, Governance Sub-Committee) and Rosina Hislop

(Board Chair) attended the meeting to discuss proposed amendments to the Seymour

Constitution and the preparation of a MOU between the SA Synod and Seymour College

in an effort to provide Seymour College with governance autonomy whilst maintaining a

relationship with the Uniting Church.


1. RECOMMEND that the Synod APPROVE the Constitution of Seymour College

Inc (see Appendix 2).

2. RECOMMEND that the Synod APPROVE the Memorandum of Understanding

between the Synod and Seymour College Inc (see Appendix 3) and

AUTHORISE the Moderator and the CEO/General Secretary to sign the

Memorandum on behalf of the Synod at a time to be arranged.



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3. APPROVE the amendments to clauses 9 (three Board members to be members

of the Uniting Church) and 11 (break of one year) of the By-Laws of UnitingCare

Kapunda.

4. NOTE the appointment of Mrs Estelle Chapple to the Prince Alfred College

Advisory Committee to fill a casual vacancy commencing on 20 December 2017

and concluding on 30 September 2019.

5. APPOINT Mr John Low to the Board of UnitingCare Kapunda for a third term of

less than two years commencing on 17 February 2018 and concluding on

31 December 2019.

6. APPOINT Mr Andrew Partington to the Board of UnitingCare Kapunda for a third

term of less than two years commencing on 17 February 2018 and concluding

on 31 December 2019.

7. APPOINT Mrs Sheena Tapping to the Board of UnitingCare Kapunda for a third

term of less than three years commencing on 17 February 2018 and concluding


8. APPOINT Mrs Jennette Mickan to the Board of UnitingCare Kapunda for a

second term of less than three years commencing on 17 February 2018 and

concluding on 31 December 2020.

9. APPOINT Mr Allan Fahlbusch to the Board of UnitingCare Kapunda for an initial



10. APPOINT Mr Ken Thomas to the Board of UnitingCare Kapunda for an initial



11. APPOINT Mrs Amanda Wilkins to the Board of UnitingCare Kapunda for an

initial term of less than three years commencing on 17 February 2018 and

concluding on 31 December 2020.

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5.1.4. Associate General Secretary’s (P&M) Report


1. Recognise Stillpoint Spirituality Centre as a member of the Urban Mission

Network.

2. Recognise Salisbury Uniting Church as a member of Grace Connections

Mission Network.



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3. Recognise Heaven’s Spring Uniting Church as a member of the Urban Mission

Network.

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4. ENDORSE the UCAF Committee nominations as shown:

UCAF General Committee 2018

President Lesley Williams 2018-2019

Secretary/Treasurer Janet Woodward 2007-

Minute Secretary Jill Pokinghorne 2017-

Members

Margaret Wilson 2016-2019

Rev Lindsay Faulkner 2016-2019

Linnell Hopkins 2016-2019

Heather Maynard 2018-2019

Rosemary Pitman 2018-2021

Regional Coordinators

Adelaide North West - Betty Christiansen

Eyre

Fleurieu North

Fleurieu South

Mount Lofty - Jean Mur

Frome

Coorong North

Coorong South

Riverland

Yorke Peninsula

Wakefield

5.2 Resources Board

5.2 Resources Board Report

No report this meeting.

5.3 Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress

5.3 Congress Report

No report this meeting.

5.4 Uniting College for Leadership & Theology

5.4. Mission and Leadership Development Report

Rev. Prof. Andrew Dutney provided a UCLT staff update, spoke about the

relocation/refurbishment of the College and about the busy schedule of events.



5.5 Pastoral Relations & Mission Planning

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5.5 Pastoral Relations & Mission Planning Report

It was AGREED that the Presbytery Standing Committee resolve to:

1. RECOGNISE Outpost Uniting Church as a Faith Community of the UCA as of 22

January 2018. Regulation 3.9.2 (Shayne Rayner (MOP) and Christie Rayner

(MOP) leaders).

2. APPOINT Philip Gardner to the Noarlunga Parish Mission Council from February

2018 for a term of two years.


3. RECOGNISE the new Uniting Church Congregation at Uniting Communities

located at Franklin and Pitt Street Adelaide as “UCity Uniting Church”.

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5.6 Stipends Committee Report

The terms and conditions of the General Secretary’s stipend were reviewed to provide

the JNC with a clear understanding of the General Secretary’s stipend and entitlements.


1. a) AGREE that the terms and conditions relating to the General Secretary

placement be as defined in the Ministerial Stipends and Conditions of

Placement Handbook.

The Synod is not required to provide a manse however it is required to meet the needs

of the person appointed in respect to housing.

b) DETERMINE that the housing allowance is assessed by the JNC in

consultation with the Interim CEO/General Secretary and the Stipends

Committee with respect to the circumstances of the appointee.

5.7. CEO/General Secretary & Moderator – Role Review Group

Kaye Roberts-Thomson and Rev Dr Ian Price spoke to the Group’s findings. The Group

found the Position Descriptions were mainly adequate however there have been some

changes to the General Secretary’s Position Description.




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1. APPROVE the Position Description for the placement of General Secretary, (see

Appendix 4).

2. THANK and DISCHARGE the Review Group.

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5.8 SA Dialogue of the Roman Catholic & Uniting Churches Report


THANK the SA RC/UC Dialogue Group for their report.

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5.9 General Secretary Appointment Processes Oversight Group


1. APPOINT the following persons to the Joint Nominating Committee (JNC) for

the SA Synod General Secretary placement:

Rev Sue Page (Convenor, subject to consent)

Rev Dr Mark Lawrence

Rev Diane Bury

Rev Dr Ian Price

Elizabeth Megaw

Karen Granger

2. REQUEST the Interim CEO/General Secretary provide administrative assistance

to the JNC.

3. APPROVE the General Secretary position be advertised locally and nationally

using the most effective timelines and communication formats.

4. APPROVE the earliest commencement date for the new General Secretary to

be 1 August 2018.

5.10 CEO/General Secretary’s Appraisal Report

An Appraisal Report (Ex-CEO/General Secretary) was completed in December 2017,

presented to Standing Committee this meeting for information.

6.0 Other Business

Re: 10 – Correspondence and attachments. This material will be discussed in depth at

the next meeting of Standing Committee.

7.0 Adjournment

Friday 20 April 2018, Level 2/212 Pirie Street

Devotions: Bruce Ind


APPENDIX 1


CEO/GENERAL SECRETARY’S LIAISON GROUP

In response to the recommendations from the Ex-Moderator’s Report to the 9th December 2016 meeting, the

Standing Committee, at that meeting, agreed in principle to:

1. establish a CEO/General Secretary’s Support Group.

2. draft suitable Terms of Reference to be brought to the February 2017 Standing Committee.

3. invite two current members of Standing Committee to be part of the CEO/General Secretary’s

Support Group and the CEO/General secretary nominate two further members of Standing

Committee to comprise the group.

The Moderator and Bronte Wilson met in January 2017 and viewed:

1. The Annual Appraisal Report brought to the meeting of 9th September 2016 and its

recommendations, at which the first recommendation of a support group was mooted.

2. The Stipend’s Committee report to the Synod meeting of 2nd November 2016, from which a

recommendation came for the next review to assess the national landscape of the position of

CEO/General secretary in light of the changing role and expectations of this critical role.

3. Historical references from 2013, 2014 and 2015 Standing Committee minutes, which all referred to

the establishment of a CEO/General secretary’s Liaison group for a Liaison Group and its progress.

4. The Ex-Moderator’s Report to the 9th December 2016 Standing Committee and notes taken from her

presentation of that report.

A set of Terms of Reference were drafted, with recommendations of names for possible group members,

and the CEO/General Secretary was invited to discuss them with the Moderator. The establishment of such

a group was not supported by the incumbent CEO/General Secretary and so the recommendation for its

establishment lapsed. With the establishment of an Interim position and the possibility of a new long term

appointment, I would like to test the willingness of the Standing Committee to establish a group using terms

of reference based on those previously agreed to but with some changes.

The main changes are to call the group a Liaison (rather than Support) Group and to incorporate in the role

of the group the process of the annual appraisal for the CEO/General Secretary.

The suggested Terms of Reference are:

CEO/Gen Sec Liaison Group – Draft Terms of Reference

A Liaison Group of four people will be appointed by the Standing Committee, consisting of:

two people nominated by Standing Committee and affirmed by the CEO/General Secretary

two people nominated by CEO/General Secretary

In general terms the Group will enable the CEO/General Secretary to share the joys and struggles of the role

(as appropriate) and to seek the advice of the group on matters related to the role and to the relationship

with the Standing Committee.



The group will:

1. create a safe and confidential space to facilitate open sharing (see 4, below).

2. act as a prayer support for the particular needs of the General Secretary as well as for the

general requirements of the role.

3. at the CEO/General Secretary’s’ discretion, be a sounding board for progressing ideas raised by

the CEO/General Secretary.

4. with the consensus of members of the group, draw to the attention of the Standing Committee

any matters that relate to the effective exercise of the CEO/General Secretary’s ministry. Pastoral

matters will be dealt with confidentially if necessary. Other matters may lead to proposals for and

decisions of the Standing Committee.

5. Undertake the annual appraisal of the CEO/General Secretary.

5. Meet ten times per annum.

It is to be noted that the functioning of this group is to complement the process whereby the Standing

Committee will also hear directly from the CEO/General Secretary about how the role is viewed and

practiced, and what actions of the Standing Committee might help the role. This is to be undertaken as part

of a strategic moment on the Agenda, where creative thinking can be nurtured outside of the present varied

understandings of the CEO/General Secretary role. Such a strategic activity would be in keeping with the

request from the Stipend’s Sub-Committee Report of 2nd November 2016 to “assess the national landscape

of the position.”


APPENDIX 2


CONSTITUTION OF SEYMOUR COLLEGE INC

Brief history of Seymour College Inc.

Presbyterian Girls’ College (PGC) was founded in 1922 following an initiative of the South Australian

Presbyterian Assembly. A committee was set up, chaired by Rev. Dr. J.A. Seymour who was then Minister

of Chalmers Church, Adelaide, later to become part of Scots Church Adelaide. PGC was founded to provide

a Presbyterian day and boarding school for girls that would encourage the Christian ethos of empathy and

service. Following the union of the Presbyterian, Congregational and Methodist Churches in 1977 to form

the Uniting Church in Australia, P.G.C. became part of the Uniting Church and was renamed Seymour

College after Rev. Dr J.A. Seymour.

The ethos of Seymour College remains deeply connected with that of its founders and the Church to which

they belonged. The College motto, Crescam Ministrando (I grow by serving), emphasises the Christian

principles of service and concern for others that are central to the purpose and day-to-day life of the College.

CONSTITUTION OF SEYMOUR COLLEGE INC.

546 PORTRUSH ROAD GLEN OSMOND SA 5064

1. In this Constitution unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) “the College” means Seymour College Incorporated;

(b) “the Synod” means the South Australian Synod of the Uniting Church in Australia;

(c) “the Church” means the Uniting Church of Australia;

(d) “the Board” means the Board of Seymour College; and

(e) “the College Community” means the students, staff, old collegians, parents and friends of the

College, together with the Church.

2. The College was established by and maintains a connection with the Church.

3. The College’s purpose is to provide a context of educational opportunity consistent with the

College’s motto Crescam Ministrando and the Schools’ connection with its founders and the Church

to which they belonged. The College’s motto emphasises the Christian principles of service and

concern for others that are central to the purpose and day-to-day life of the College.

4. A Board comprising up to nine, and not less than five, members shall govern the College. The Board

will have full authority over and control of the affairs, financial and otherwise, of the College.

5. All appointments to the Board will be by nomination of the Board after a nominations process

involving open advertisement of the vacancy and a recommendation to the Board by a board

nominations subcommittee. The Board retains full discretion to accept or reject the nominations

committee’s recommendation but no appointment shall be made to the Board other than via the

nominations committee. The Board shall notify the Synod and the College Community of all

appointments to, and retirements from, the Board. Any decision made in relation to the nomination,

appointment, term or retirement of a Board member will be by a two thirds majority vote of the

Board.

6. The members of the Board will be appointed for up to three-year terms. The duration of such terms

shall be determined by the Board whose decision shall be final and binding. A retiring member of the

Board shall be eligible for re-appointment for up to a maximum of 12 years of service. A member

who is appointed Chair may hold office for longer, but no more than a total of 14 years on the Board.



7. The Board shall be deemed to be duly constituted and may exercise all its powers and functions

notwithstanding that the full number of members shall not have been appointed or that there shall be

a vacancy in the membership of the Board or that there shall be any defect in the appointment of any

member of the Board.

8. When a member of the Board dies, resigns, refuses or is unable to act or is incapable of acting in the

duties of office, or is absent from three consecutive meetings without obtaining prior leave of

absence from the Board, or persistently acts in a manner detrimental to the College or the Church

the Board shall have power to declare the place of that member vacant and may appoint a person to

fill the vacancy.

9. The Board shall meet at least ten times a year.

10. The Executive Director, Corporate Services of the College shall convene a meeting of the Board on

not less than 7 days notice on the written request of any Board member or on less notice where the

urgency of the issue so requires.

11. The Board will elect a Board member as Chair annually and notify the Synod of this appointment.

The Chair will have a maximum of six years in the office as Chair, or in exceptional circumstances

such longer period as the Board may agree, but no longer than eight years. The Chair will preside at

all meetings of the Board. In the absence of the Chair the Board will elect another member to act as

Chair for that meeting.

12. The quorum will be at least one half of the members at any point in time.

13. Subject to any provision of this Constitution prescribing a majority by which a resolution shall be

passed, all resolutions shall be determined by a simple majority of the members of the Board

present and voting. The Chair of the meeting shall have a deliberative vote but not a casting vote.

14. The Principal of the College shall be appointed by the Board.

15. The attendance of the Principal, Executive Director, Corporate Services and any other observers will

be at the discretion of the Board.

16. The College shall have a seal. The seal shall be affixed to documents only with the authority of the

Board and the affixing of the seal to any document shall be counter-signed by the Chair or their

nominee and one other Board member and attested by the Executive Director, Corporate Services

or their nominee.

17. The Board will have a Board Charter to be reviewed annually by the Board.

18. The Board has the power to establish or disband such committees as it may determine necessary

from time to time. The Board may co-opt such other persons as it sees fit to serve on such

committees.

19. The Curriculum of study at the College shall be determined by the Principal and approved by the

Board.

20. The real and personal property of the College not required for the immediate educational purposes

of the College may be used for such purposes and for such undertakings or otherwise invested in

such assets, real or personal, as the Board may from time to time approve.

21. The Board may borrow money for the purpose of the College on such security as it shall deem fit

and may otherwise acquire the ownership or use of such real and personal property as the Board

may deem in the interests of the College. The Board may sell the whole or any portion of the real or

personal property of the College upon such terms and conditions as the Board shall deem fit and

proper but the Board shall not sell any land used by the College in connection with the education of



pupils except in pursuance of a resolution of the Board of which particular notice shall have been

given and carried by a majority of three fourths of the whole number of the members of the Board.

22. The Board will each year appoint an auditor and will submit its annual report to the Synod.

23. The Board will report on its engagement activities with the College Community at least annually to

the Synod and the College Community.

24. The Board may amend any of this Constitution and may make and pass a new Constitution with a

view to more efficient management and conduct of the College, provided that no amendment or new

Constitution shall be made except with the concurrence of all of the members of the Board.

25. Any new Constitution or amendment of this Constitution shall be submitted to the next meeting of the

Synod held after its making.

26. If the College ceases for any reason to conduct a school for the education of children the College

shall be wound up in accordance with the provisions of the law for the time being relating to the

winding up of incorporated associations and the assets remaining after paying all the liabilities of the

College and the expenses of the winding up shall be applied by the Liquidator of the College for or

towards such one or more educational or religious purposes consistent with the purpose of the

College as presented in the Constitution, or towards another institution that reflects the ethos of the

Church, as the Board may at the meeting at which it determines to wind up the College by resolution

passed by a majority of three fourths of the whole number of members of the Board determine.

[UPDATE AS NECESSARY] Amendments to the Constitution were approved by the meeting of the Synod

Standing Committee on 8 April 2016 and take effect on that day. These amendments were made to the

Constitution that had been approved at the meeting of the Board of the College on 27 June 2007 and

approved by the Synod Standing Committee on 12 July 2007. The 2007 Constitution took effect on 12 July

2007 and replaced the 18 April 2005 Constitution, which in turn replaced the Statutes of Seymour College

Inc approved by the Council of Governors of the College on 25 October 1995.


APPENDIX 3


MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING

THE UNITING CHURCH IN AUSTRALIA SYNOD of SOUTH AUSTRALIA

and

SEYMOUR COLLEGE Inc

PREAMBLE

Presbyterian Girls' College (PGC) was founded in 1922 following an initiative of the South Australian

Presbyterian Assembly. A committee was set up, chaired by Rev Dr J A Seymour who was then Minister of

Chalmers Church, Adelaide, later to become part of Scots Church Adelaide. PGC was founded to provide a

Presbyterian day and boarding school for girls that would encourage the Christian ethos of empathy and

service. Following the union of the Presbyterian, Congregational and Methodist Churches in 1977 to form

the Uniting Church in Australia, PGC became part of the Uniting Church and was renamed Seymour College

after Rev Dr J A Seymour.

The ethos of Seymour College remains deeply connected with that of its founders and the Church to which

they belonged. The College motto, Crescam Ministrando (I grow by serving), emphasises the Christian

principles of service and concern for others that are central to the purpose and day-to-day life of the College.

DEFINITIONS

In this document, unless the contrary intention appears:

"Synod" means The Uniting Church in Australia, Synod of South Australia

"Uniting Church" means The Uniting Church in Australia

STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING

This document records agreement for the relationship between Seymour College Inc and the Uniting Church

in Australia (SA Synod). Both parties appreciate the history of Seymour College in the provision of

education consistent with the missional focus of the Church. Both parties recognise the importance of the

relationship in expressing the Church's commitment to education.

The Synod and Seymour College will support each other in appropriate ways in the achievement of their

respective educational and missional goals.

In order to preserve the enduring legacy of this association with the Uniting Church, Seymour College Inc

will:

Appoint Board members who are committed to the shared ethos of the College and the Synod (see

attached Ethos document).

Engage with the Uniting Church including an annual (in person) presentation by Seymour’s Board

Chair to the CEO/General Secretary of the annual report (which includes details of the financial

position and performance of the College), to keep the Synod informed of the performance and

direction of Seymour College.

Continue to engage in the broad mission of the church through relationships with local

congregations and Uniting World.

Ensure the presence of staff whose roles include an emphasis on furthering the school’s mission.


APPENDIX 3


Invite the Moderator to participate in special events within the life of the College.

Participate in the Synod’s crisis management protocol, whereby the Executive Officer, UnitingCare

SA, is notified of issues that may be reported in the press and which could impact on the

reputation of the Church.

The Uniting Church in Australia (SA Synod) will, as and when appropriate:

Continue to provide support by way of the involvement of the Moderator in special events within

the life of the College.

Provide opportunities for training of Board members, particularly in the area of the Ethos of the

Uniting Church.

Subject to appropriate authorisations being received from the administrators of the relevant

programs, support Seymour College through access to administrative resources, such as the

Uniting Church Insurance program and Synergy, along with financial services made available by

UClnvest.

Notify the Chair of Seymour College’s Board of any issues that may be reported in the press and

which could impact on the reputation of the College.

Both parties to this Memorandum acknowledge that Seymour College Inc is free to use the logo of The

Uniting Church in Australia in accordance with section 1b of the Guidelines provided by the National

Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia and attached to this Memorandum.

This document is a statement of understanding and is not intended to create binding or legal

obligations on either party.

Signed for and on behalf of The Uniting Church in Australia Synod of South Australia by:

Moderator .................................................................. Date ....................................

Chief Executive Officer/

General Secretary .................................................................. Date ....................................

Signed for and on behalf of Seymour College Incorporated by:

Chair .................................................................. Date ....................................

Principal .................................................................. Date ....................................


APPENDIX 3 (Attachment)


Ethos of the Uniting Church in Australia Presbytery and Synod of SA

It is the expectation of the Uniting Church SA that entities associated with the Uniting Church will conduct

their affairs in accordance with the ethos of the Uniting Church. At times this expectation is given expression

within the constitution of the entity or in the memorandum of understanding between the entity and the

Synod. Even when not expressed in these documents, however, it is a core expectation of the Uniting

Church that to be associated with the Uniting Church implies the entities’ willingness to operate within this

ethos.

The ethos of the Uniting Church reflects the very essence of the Uniting Church, the DNA that both defines

the Church and is given expression in the behaviours, attitudes and outcomes that the Church and entities

associated with the Church live out in their daily affairs. These behaviours, attitudes and outcomes are

based on the nature of the Uniting Church as a Christian church and hence have their roots in the Church’s

understanding of Christian faith in general and the teachings of Jesus in particular.

The Uniting Church seeks to give contemporary expression to the ancient Christian tradition in ways that

bring God’s life and hope to communities and individuals. The Great Commandment1 of Jesus provides a

clear framework for our identity and mission: we discover who we truly are when we give ourselves in love

and service of God and neighbour.

In the Basis of Union2, the Uniting Church commits its members to lives of worship, prayer, fellowship and

service. Indissolubly linked with the spiritual disciplines is our church’s commitment to giving tangible

expression to God’s reconciling work in Christ. This call undergirds our commitment to seeking deeper

partnerships with other churches and all people of goodwill; our involvement in community services; and

action and advocacy for a just society. Today, ‘love of neighbour’ extends to future generations and our

non-human neighbours in God’s creation by developing environmentally sustainable practices.

While the Uniting Church is clearly grounded in the historic Christian tradition, in the life and teachings, death

and resurrection of Jesus Christ, we live in a multi-faith world and we respect people’s freedom of religious

belief. We seek peace and understanding among religions.

In Uniting Church workplaces (within the Presbytery and Synod and within the various entities associated

with the Uniting Church) we are committed to policies and practices that reflect this ethos in both its Biblical

and faith origins and in contemporary behaviours, attitudes and outcomes.

Values arising from this ethos

Each Uniting Church workplace will define the values that arise from this ethos and which underpin the work

carried on in that place. These may include but are not limited to:

justice, welcoming and inclusive, compassion, shared leadership, respect, integrity, wise stewardship and

innovation.

Ethos of the Uniting Church in Australia – endorsed by Standing Committee, December 2016

1 “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great

and first commandment. And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-39, NRSV)

2 The Basis of Union on the Assembly website:

https://assembly.uca.org.au/images/stories/HistDocs/basisofunion1992.pdf

https://assembly.uca.org.au/images/stories/HistDocs/basisofunion1992.pdf


APPENDIX 4


UNITING CHURCH IN AUSTRALIA PRESBYTERY AND SYNOD OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA

POSITION DESCRIPTION FOR GENERAL SECRETARY

Position Title: General Secretary

Location: Adelaide

Appointed By: Presbytery and Synod in Session

Responsible To: Presbytery and Synod and the Standing Committee of Presbytery and Synod

Full Time/Part Time/Casual: Full time Approved Placement

Term of Office: 5 years initially (Regulation 3.6.3.3(b))

Date Amended: December 2017; Effective from TBA

In this document:

“the Church” means “the Uniting Church SA”

“bodies” include but are not limited to all councils, committees and other task groups of the Church

1. PRIMARY PURPOSES OF THE ROLE

1.1 The General Secretary provides pastoral, strategic and governance leadership and advice to the

Presbytery and Synod to assist the Church as it seeks to develop its capacity for mission and

ministry.

1.2 The General Secretary provides pastoral, strategic and administrative leadership to the Presbytery

and Synod office to assist and support the Church in the exercise of its mission, ministry and

service. The General Secretary exercises the function of a chief executive officer with regard to

staff and resources of the Presbytery and Synod office, within the framework of the Regulations of

the Uniting Church in Australia, employment law and the Church’s Human Relations policies.

1.3 The General Secretary exercises the responsibilities of Secretary of the Presbytery and the

responsibilities of Secretary of the Synod as determined by the Regulations of the Uniting Church

in Australia and The Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust (S.A.) in order to facilitate and

enhance the meetings and work of the Presbytery and Synod.

1.4 In undertaking these responsibilities, the General Secretary works in collaboration with the

Moderator and provides the Moderator with pastoral, administrative and advisory support relevant

to the Moderator’s responsibilities.


APPENDIX 4


2. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

2.1 LEADERSHIP IN RELATION TO PRESBYTERY AND SYNOD DISCERNMENT, STRATEGY

AND MISSION

The General Secretary will:

2.1.1 Provide leadership to the Church and its Councils by actively engaging in spiritual discernment and

strategic thinking about the life, vision, mission and direction of the Church.

2.1.2 Work collaboratively with the Moderator, to facilitate processes by which spiritual discernment and

strategic discussions about the life, vision, mission and direction of the Church can occur regularly

within the meetings of the Presbytery and Synod and across the life of the Church.

2.1.3 Take responsibility for the implementation of the Presbytery and Synod Strategic Plan and also any

decisions relating to strategy, mission and future directions by:

ensuring that Executive Officers establish clearly defined goals and priorities for their work

and responsibilities that are aligned with approved Presbytery and Synod strategic plans,

directions and initiatives; and

managing within approved delegations, the performance of the Presbytery and Synod staff

to ensure alignment with, and achievement of, approved Presbytery and Synod strategic

plans, directions and initiatives.

2.1.4 Encourage the use of change management processes and practices (including conflict

management practices) to enable congregations, Church bodies and members to participate

together in God’s mission, and to engage with key directional, strategic and other mission initiatives

of the Presbytery and Synod.

2.2 PASTORAL, ADMINISTRATIVE AND GOVERNANCE LEADERSHIP

PASTORAL


2.2.1 Exercise leadership, alongside the Moderator, to promote the pastoral well-being of the Church.

2.2.2 Provide support to the Moderator on pastoral issues with specific reference to the administration

and governance of the Church, and of Presbytery and Synod.

2.2.3 Ensure that pastoral matters relating to the Presbytery and Synod, including congregational and

ministerial pastoral relations, placements, discipline and appeal matters are handled effectively in

accordance with Sections 3.7.2; 3.7.3; 3.7.4.2; and Sections 5 and 6 of the Uniting Church in

Australia Regulations by:


APPENDIX 4


The provision of staff to support the work of the relevant Committees;

The provision of opportunities for relevant skills development for staff and committee

members; and

The development of policies and procedures as required

ADMINISTRATION AND GOVERNANCE


2.2.4 Be responsible for the fulfilment of the duties and responsibilities of the Secretary of the Presbytery

in accordance with Regulation 3.6.2 and of the Secretary of the Synod in accordance with

Regulation 3.6.3.4.

2.2.5 Facilitate the implementation of agreed Presbytery and Synod policy.

2.2.6 Exercise and oversee good governance practices by ensuring that the Church complies with legal,

statutory and other regulatory requirements and maintains complete and accurate records as are

required.

2.2.7 Provide leadership in risk management (including reputational risk) and crisis avoidance and

management. If the Synod is involved in a crisis situation the General Secretary will act as Team

Leader of the Crisis Management Team in accordance with the Crisis Management Plan and will

ensure that:

there is a prompt and effective response;

a post-crisis evaluation is completed; and

a written report is provided to the Standing Committee on the outcome of the evaluation.

2.2.8 Develop and encourage a supportive, productive and creative work place culture within the

Presbytery and Synod office through the exercise of the General Secretary’s management

responsibility for Presbytery and Synod staff and resources, including:

encouraging all staff, in consultation with their line managers, to develop and participate in

training/education plans to enhance their skills and support their agreed employment or

ministry goals;

conducting annual performance appraisals for Executive Officers against agreed annual

goals;

ensuring that effective annual performance appraisals are conducted for all staff.

2.2.9 Exercise responsible financial stewardship, ensuring that the Synod’s financial and property

resources are managed in accordance with internal regulatory and policy requirements and

external regulatory and statutory obligations.

2.2.10 Ensure the co-ordination and integration of the work of the Presbytery and Synod office and its

staff by chairing regular meetings of Executive Officers.


APPENDIX 4


2.2.11 Uphold and maintain the covenantal relationship between the Uniting Church in Australia and the

Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress and ensure effective stewardship to achieve our

mission and ministry.

2.2.12 Participate constructively in the life and activities of bodies of which the General Secretary is a

member or participant, including assisting the work and strategic direction of such bodies as

appropriate.

2.2.13 Represent the Church in legal matters, including those that relate to the activities of the Uniting

Church in Australia Property Trust (S.A.)

3. AUTHORITIES

3.1 The General Secretary has authority to approve all expenditure within the annual budget as

determined by the Presbytery and Synod meeting or its Standing Committee.

3.2 The General Secretary has authority to approve other expenditure within the limits set by the

Presbytery and Synod Standing Committee from time to time.

3.3 The General Secretary has authority, within the framework and limits of the Uniting Church in

Australia Regulations and employment laws and practices, to appoint and terminate Synod staff.

3.4 The General Secretary may delegate responsibilities as appropriate.

3.5 The General Secretary may recommend to the Standing Committee the appointment of an acting

General Secretary to exercise the duties and responsibilities of the General Secretary in his/her

absence.

3.6 The General Secretary shall carry out any other duties or tasks as requested by the Presbytery and

Synod or its Standing Committee.

4. REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

4.1 The General Secretary reports to the Presbytery and Synod in Session and the Standing

Committee of Presbytery and Synod.

4.2 The Standing Committee of the Presbytery and Synod will provide appropriate mechanisms by

which management and accountability reporting will be undertaken by the General Secretary.

4.3 The following positions report directly to the General Secretary:

Associate General Secretary(s)

Executive Officer Resources

Executive Officer UnitingCare

Executive Officer Mission and Leadership Development

Executive Officer Pastoral Relations and Mission Planning

Communications Manager and Editor-in-Chief


APPENDIX 4


Executive Assistant to General Secretary

4.4 Other Presbytery and Synod staff report indirectly to the General Secretary through their line

managers or Executive Officers.

5. COMMITTEE INVOLVEMENTS

(The relevant by-laws sometimes provide for the appointment by the General Secretary of a nominee)

5.1 The General Secretary is a member of the following bodies:

Presbytery and Synod

Presbytery and Synod Standing Committee

Business Committee

Placements Committee *

Resources Board

Human Resource and Remuneration Committee

Stipends Committee

Mission and Leadership Development Board

The Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust (S.A.)

Assembly (Regulation 3.38(iii))

Reception of Ministers Committee

* Note: The Pastoral Relations Committee and the Placements Committee meet as one

committee.

5.2 The General Secretary may attend and participate in meetings of the following bodies:

Pastoral Relations Committee*

Assembly Standing Committee (Regulation 3.7.5.1(j)(i) )

* Note: The Pastoral Relations Committee and the Placements Committee meet as one

committee.

5.3 The General Secretary participates in the work of other Uniting Church, ecumenical or other bodies

as determined by the Presbytery and Synod Standing Committee.

Regulation 3.6.3.4(b) (included in Appendix 1) indicates the General Secretary is an ex-officio

member of all Synod bodies.

6. PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

The General Secretary will be a person who:

Has a personal faith in Jesus Christ;

Has a sense of call to the role of General Secretary;

Is an active member of the UCA;

Is significantly experienced in ministry (either lay or ordained) within the Uniting

Church;


APPENDIX 4


Is passionate about the mission of the church and its relationship to congregational

life;

Displays strong pastoral gifts;

Is gifted in mediation, advocacy and conflict resolution;

Evidences the ability to work well as a member of a team;

Evidences the ability to work with people with diverse theological views;

Is willing to respect the ethos of all Networks within the Presbytery and Synod;

Is able to exercise appropriate self-care and nurture;

Is self-motivated and self-regulated with the ability to organise and delegate where

appropriate.

7. SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS/COMPETENCIES

Tertiary qualifications in theology and/or in one or more areas of community, management, human

services or social sciences are highly desirable.


Demonstrate an ability to reflect on issues theologically;

Have demonstrated high level skills in leadership, management, administration and

strategic planning;

Have evidence of training and/or experience in leadership and management or a

related field

Have a sound knowledge of the structure and polity of the Uniting Church (including

a sound understanding of the Constitution, Regulations and policies of the Uniting

Church in Australia, and in particular the Code of Ethics and Ministry Practice)

Have prior experience within the councils of the Church;

A willingness to travel within SA and more widely, as required;

Be available and willing to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as

necessary.

8. CONDITIONS

As set by the Presbytery and Synod Stipends Committee.


APPENDIX 4 (APPENDIX 1)


Appendix 1:

Duties of Synod General Secretary according to the UCA Regulations

Regulation 3.6.3.4

(a) The Secretary of the Synod shall be the executive officer of the Synod; with executive leadership,

pastoral and advisory roles; and be responsible for:

(i) ensuring execution of Synod policy;

(ii) coordinating Synod activities;

(iii) overseeing the management of Synod staff;

(iv) acting as liaison officer of the Synod with the Presbyteries and other bodies within the bounds;

(v) providing all necessary reports and information as may be required by the Assembly; and

(vi) such other things as the Synod may require

b) the Secretary of the Synod is a member ex-officio of all Synod bodies.

Duties of Presbytery Secretary according to the UCA Regulations

Regulation 3.6.2

(f) The Presbytery shall elect a secretary for such period up to five years as the Presbytery may

determine. The secretary shall be a confirmed member of the Church.

(g) The duties of the secretary shall include:

(i) convening meetings, preparing the agenda and keeping a record of all proceedings of the

Presbytery;

(ii) attending to all other correspondence on behalf of the Presbytery, including advising all affected

parties of the decisions of the Presbytery;

(iii) maintaining and having custody of the books and records of the Presbytery, including the roll of

the Presbytery, except such as may be assigned to other officers;

(iv) furnishing information and reports to the Synod and Assembly and to other bodies as required;

(v) dealing with property, disciplinary and other matters in accordance with Regulations;

(vi) performing such other duties as may be assigned by the Presbytery.

(h) Should the secretary be temporarily unable to perform the duties of the office or should the office of

secretary fall vacant, the Presbytery may appoint an acting secretary who shall have full authority and

responsibility to perform all the duties of the office until such time as the secretary is available to

resume those duties or another secretary is elected.

In the Uniting Church SA, the General Secretary fulfils both the roles of General Secretary of the Synod and

Secretary of the Presbytery. It is understood that “executive leadership” (3.6.3.4.(a)) applies specifically to

the Synod Office, and that the leadership exercised by the General Secretary is one of ‘servant leadership’

as she/he serves the Presbytery and Synod and its Standing Committee, honouring the Uniting Church

understanding that these Councils have the responsibility of exercising corporate episcopacy (oversight)

within their bounds (Basis of Union para 15(c), (d), and Constitution 26, 32).

Standing Committee Minutes 16 February 2018 · 16 February 2018 SC MINUTES Standing Committee 16...

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