Policy groups give their members a chance to influence decisions at a national level.
Before 1998, the church had 23 committees. Each was responsible for a particular area, such as property, communications or finance, and directly employed the relevant national office staff. A review found that their focus on day-to-day operations made it easy for committees to get caught up in details, particularly concerning the employment of staff.
If people were concerned about issues, special committees were set up. Often after carrying out research they required further funding to implement proposals, which could mean an episodic approach to progress.
The church wanted to engage more effectively with the social upheaval that had taken place since the 60s, says Assembly general secretary Kerry Enright. “We needed to focus much more attention on how we responded to these big changes.” Creating groups that emphasised policy would mean stepping away from operational concerns and engaging with contemporary society.
Assembly decided to move to a new structure in 1998, and after Assembly approved the groups in 2000, potential members were evaluated by a nominating committee. Most of the volunteers were ministers, elders or others with particular expertise; members were chosen on the basis of their skills.
Each group has about 10 members, who work together to provide advice and proposals covering their specific area. Mr Enright says the structure is gradually gaining credibility, though a “shake-down period” has seen a review of the groups’ effectiveness. “It’s been a significant transition.”
Concerns about the performance of the finance committee resulted in some changes, and may further involve consideration of whether this form of governance is most appropriate, Mr Enright says.
Equipping the Leadership has delivered a standout performance, with all its proposals approved by Assembly 2004. These include minister and mission appraisals, implementation of two strands of ministry, which Mr Enright describes as “the biggest change to our ministry in 50 years”.
The establishment of the Global Mission Office is another success delivered under the new framework. Convenors and members can serve for only four years, though a two-year extension may be granted. Changes to the memberships of the different groups are staggered to spread the work of the nominating committee, with Assembly reviewing and approving recommendations.
If people want to influence decision on a national level by becoming part of a policy group, they can contact their presbytery and the nominating committee. If you have a passion for an issue but do not want to participate formally, contact the relevant group, which may be keen to use you as a sounding board or source of expertise.
This year, parts of the nominations process will be going online, with information about candidates and the process to be found on a dedicated website.