A core task of the church is to proclaim the gospel — the Good News of Jesus Christ — wherever we may be, always aware of the context we address. So much has changed around us in recent decades through technology, in addition to rapid social shifts. In the midst of changing patterns, uncertainties and possibilities, we are called to proclaim the gospel with joy in the context of Canadian urban, rural, Indigenous and isolated communities. To do that effectively, we need supportive structures and resources that are appropriate to our time and needs. We have inherited much that is good and helpful but it can always be improved and may need to be transformed.
What is needed now — in the 21st century — at the national level to effectively proclaim the gospel in sustainable and lifegiving ways? Are changes needed? If major changes are needed, how do we implement them with care and attention to their impacts? If we need to improve current patterns, how do we celebrate and support the gifts we have and use them well, now and into the future? How will the structure of the General Synod need to shift or improve to be most effective?
These are the questions given to this Primate’s Commission, established in 2023 by Archbishop Linda Nicholls. The Commission will explore these questions and offer a report to General Synod 2025 with recommendations for the continuation of this work that is expected to continue beyond 2025.
Commission Members:
- The Rev. Dr. Kyle Wagner, NS & PEI
- The Ven. Rhonda Waters, Ottawa
- Mr. Dion Lewis, Montreal
- The Very Rev. Peter Elliott, New Westminster
- The Ven. Monique Stone (Chair), Ottawa
- The Ven. Nick Pang, New Westminster (Kootenay when appointed)
- The Rev. Cole Hartin, currently serving in the Episcopal Church of the United States
- The Rev. Jasmine Chandra, Fredericton
- Dr. Sarah K. Johnson, Dean of Anglican Studies, St. Paul’s University
The following materials are available for your review and reflection:
The Commission is consulting with Anglicans across the country through provincial synods and online conversations with members of General Synod, Council of the North, Sacred Circle, members of General Synod staff, Council of General Synod and others. The Commission invites Anglicans to provide comment on its work via an online survey. Take the survey now.