Subject: Thanksgivings over the Water 

Moved By: The Ven. Douglas Fenton
Seconded By: The Rt. Rev. Andrew Asbil

Be it resolved that this General Synod:  

Authorize for use Thanksgivings over the Water.

Source: Faith, Worship, and Ministry Coordinating Committee       

Submitted By: Faith, Worship, and Ministry Coordinating Committee                    

Does this motion contain within it any financial implications?      Yes     No

If yes, has the General Synod Expenditures Committee considered the implications?   Yes    No

EXPLANATORY NOTE/BACKGROUND

The Thanksgivings over the Water were approved by the Council of General Synod in June of 2017 for Trial Use and Evaluation, following an internal trial use phase amongst members of the Liturgy Working Group. These two sets of seasonal prayers are offered to encourage a more robust baptismal ecclesiology, recognizing the desirability of offering occasions for the Renewal of Baptismal Vows for whole congregations at various points within the liturgical year, as well as to encourage a liturgical-seasonal-harmony in prayers offered at baptisms in these seasons.

The language draws on biblical themes to provide a rich tapestry of blessing celebration. The two particular occasions chosen – Baptism of the Lord and All Saints’ – encourage these occasions to be used for the celebrations of baptism as well as renewal of baptismal vows, in addition to the Easter Vigil.  An additional text relating to Pentecost is being prepared for consideration. 

PROCEDURE FOR ADOPTION (G)

In the normal course, an ordinary motion must be passed by a majority of the members of General Synod present and voting together. Six members of General Synod may, prior to the question being put, require a vote by Orders, with a majority of each Order being necessary to pass. 

If a question passes on a Vote by Orders, any six members (two from each of three different dioceses) may immediately before the next item of business require a vote to be taken by dioceses. A motion passes if a majority (or a tie) of dioceses vote in favour. 

Source: Sections 4 and 5 of the Declaration of Principles and sections 18, 19 and 20 of the Rules of Order and Procedure.