A message to the church

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A message to the church from Archbishop Fred Hiltz, Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada, on the appointment of a commission on the marriage canon.

By way of follow-up to the decision of COGS to proceed with the handling of General Synod Resolution C003, Preparation of motion to change Canon XXI on Marriage; Direction to COGS, through the work of a commission, I am pleased to announce that the following persons have accepted appointment as members.

Canon Robert Falby (Chair)
Dr. Patricia Bays
The Very Rev. Kevin Dixon
The Rev. Dr. Paul Friesen
The Rev. Canon Paul Jennings
Dr. Stephen Martin
The Rt. Rev. Linda Nicholls
The Most Rev. John Privett

Attached you will find a brief profile of each of the members.

I want to thank all those who put forward names for consideration by the Officers in naming the Commissioners.  All were thoughtfully and prayerfully considered.

I also want to point out that within the Terms of Reference, there is provision for the Commission to “invite submissions from specific individuals or groups on the overall question or on particular points that the Commission is considering, and may appoint advisors to assist it in any aspect of its work.”  It is also important to note that “to ensure the credibility of the Commission and the transparency of its work, all submissions to the Commission will be posted on the national Church’s website.”

Those who have accepted appointment of this commission have accepted a very important piece of work on behalf of the Church.  I ask for your prayers as they begin that work.  May they know the wisdom and grace of the Spirit’s leading.


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