Synod to study ‘mod. marriage’

Press, 14 June 1976, Page 2

Synod to study ‘mod. marriage ’

Staff reporter Nelson A proposed "mod. marriage" service requires much more study, the Nelson Synod of the Anglican Church has decided. A decision on four alternative services — for baptism, marriage, the ordination of deacons, and the blessing of a child — recommended for adoption by the provincial commission on prayer book revision will be made next year. The services — of an experimental nature — must be approved by four of the seven dioceses at the General Svnod before any diocese may use them. Some speakers objected to the words in a proposed service in which the vow ending. "Until we are parted by death — this is my solemn vow,” is replaced by, "I pray God will grant us life-long fidelity."

The form suggested in the “mod. service” appeared to offer an “escape clause,” according to some speakers. A clear division of opinion on this service was shown in a division on an amendment that the second service be omitted. The clergy opposed the amendment, 15-14; the laity supported it, 28-24. A suggestion by the Bishop of Nelson (the Rt Rev. P. E. Sutton) that discussion be deferred for closer study was adopted. A net loss of $35,000 was recorded on the running of Whareamea Home at Nelson. A gross loss of almost $40,000 was disclosed in the financial report on the home for the aged. The loss will be met from the depreciation reserve, but the Synod was told that this could not continue. The reserve was now only $116,000 and much of this was required for renovation.