Reformed Presbyterian Minutes of Synod 1993

116 1993 MINUTES OF THE SYNOD OF THEquestions. Our presentation included such things as: a consideration onature of a healthy church; some of the characteristics shared by decliningcongregations and possible causes; the nature of the relationship betweenthe presbytery and the local congregation.It was our desire and stated purpose to be encouraging and uplifting,while at the same time being careful to recognize some of the causes ofdecline in a congregation.An opportunity for feedback resulted in a spirited discussion whichcontinued past the announced closing time. It is obvious that there aremany hurting individuals, many of whom are in declining congregations.This committee has not met to analyze the data received at Carleton.We therefore have not completed our assignment in bringing recommendationsto the Synod regarding the renewal of declining congregations.Your committee accepts responsibility for this failure and will bringrecommendations to the 1994 Synod.Respectfully submitted,Bob LaMayPaul McCrackenJerrold Milroy, ChairmanIt was moved, seconded and carried that we move ahead with theregular rules of Synod on the Report of the Committee to Resolve theImpasse on Query #8. It was moved, seconded and carried that weextend the time for the completion of the report. The parliamentariansreported on the status of the substitute motion, one part of whichwas passed while the remaining two parts were lost during theWednesday afternoon session as follows:REPORT OF PARLIAMENTARIANSAt the conclusion of the Wednesday afternoon session duringdebate on the report of the special committee on Vow #8 Impasse, a motionof three parts was substituted for Recommendations 2 and 3 of the report.After considerable debate the previous question was moved and passed,calling for an immediate vote. A division of die substitute motion into itsthree parts was called for and granted with a favorable ruling by theparliamentarians. Parts 1 and 2 were lost; Part 3 passed. The question thenarose as to the status both of Part 3 of the substitute and Recommendations2 and 3 of the report.Although our rules do not give clear direction, Robert's Rules of Order