Lively debate expected at Synod

Press, 4 October 1985, Page 2

Lively debate expected at Synod

Lively debate regarding the Anglican Church’s stand on the Homosexual Law Reform Bill is expected when the Synod of the Christchurch diocese meets this week-end. The notices of motion include one by Canon J. Greenslade, of Cashmere, reaffirming the Synod’s support for law reform. A resolution was passed by the Synod in 1979 supporting decriminalisation of homosexual acts between consenting males in private, subject to appropriate safeguards for the protection of minors. A subsequent resolution opposed discrimination against anyone, whether in employment or merely on the grounds of their homosexuality. A media co-ordinator for the meeting, the Rev. James Riley, said yesterday that “heated” debate on the issue was expected as was some

picketing by Church members. Discussion on the New Ecumenical Body, an organisation which is proposed to replace the National Council of Churches, is also expected to be lively. Guest speakers on the issue will be the council’s general secretary, Mrs Jocelyn Armstrong, and the director of the Christian World Service, the Rev. Brian Turner. About 300 ministers, chaplains, and lay people are expected to attend the annual meeting, which will be opened this evening by the Bishop of Christchurch, the Rt Rev. Maurice Goodall. The diocesan Synod meets annually to decide policy, express Church views on specific matters, elect members of diocesan committees, and consider reports and accounts of diocesan bodies.