Preface
Revising the Guide
From time to time it becomes clear that revision is necessary - this arises in at least three ways. Firstly when editing the present clauses, it becomes apparent that some clarification is needed to simplify or broaden text and the editor decides what should be done. The second way comes from inquiries about interpretation or from amendments in Partners’ procedures which affects Cooperative Ventures (CVs). Thirdly CVs, Joint Regional Committees (JRCs), Union District Councils (UDCs) or individuals make suggestions on ways in which the Guide could be amended to assist in smoother running of their groups' affairs.
An individual or a group response reworking appropriate clauses can simply handle some of the above proposals for amendment. Other amendments may require a more lengthy process involving a task group looking at the situation.
An example of the simple process is when the Forum receives advice of a Partner change of procedure; the affected clause is reworded to suit the new situation.
An application of the more involved process was required recently when a work group was set up to develop guidelines for local ministry in CVs. This work group included representatives appointed by each of the Partners and resulted in the preparation of new guidelines.
Approvals of amendments to the Guide
Relevant clauses are considered by the Guide to Procedures policy committee of the Standing Committee of the Forum and then submitted to Standing Committee for consideration and any redrafting if required. When the Standing Committee is satisfied with the wording then there are two ways of seeking final approval.
If the clauses involved relate to any portion of the Common Provisions,because these are regulatory, approval must be gained from each of the Partners before any amendment is made to the Guide. A response must be received from all five Partners and any subsequent amendments agreed to by all parties before any revision is made to the Guide. Because of the different processes involved in the Partner churches, this process may take some time.
If the Common Provisions are not involved in the amendment, approval of the amendment is the responsibility of the Standing Committee of Forum. The Partners are informed of the proposed changes and input sought if requested by their representative on Standing Committee.
In both the above amendment procedures, the JRCs and UDCs may also be asked to comment although their consent is not required.
| Glen Robertson Editor |
David Ross Executive Officer |
Tony Bell Convenor |