Subject: Ambassadors for Reconciliation

Moved By: The Rt. Rev. Riscylla Shaw
Seconded By:

Be it resolved that this General Synod:

Direct Council of General Synod to establish a committee to strategize and guide the ongoing work of the truth, justice and reconciliation, including building and supporting a network of Ambassadors for Reconciliation from dioceses and regions.

Source: Primate’s Commission on Discovery, Reconciliation, and Justice                         

Submitted By: Primate’s Commission on Discovery, Reconciliation, and Justice                  

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  

Established in 2013, the Primate’s Commission on Discovery, Reconciliation, and Justice contributed to the Anglican Church of Canada’s ongoing response to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Comprised of First Nations, Inuit, Métis and non-Indigenous Anglicans, and ecumenical partners, the Commission was tasked with reviewing church structures and policies to identify and seek ways to dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery; create a plan for reconciliation; and address injustices in and towards Indigenous communities. The Commission also supported the Anglican Church of Canada actions towards implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission 94 Calls to Action. The Commission’s mandate comes to an end at General Synod 2019, however it is clear that the work of truth-telling, justice-seeking and reconciliation is ongoing and must continue to involve the whole church. National coordination and support is required for important diocesan/regional reconciliation efforts to enable cross church connections and help contribute Anglican presence in ecumenical initiatives.  

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.