Issued by the Synod of Bishops after its September 2022 meeting:

The Provincial Task Team appointed by Archbishop Thabo Makgoba to make recommendations on how best the Church can address discrimination issues at Diocesan schools tabled an interim report at the February meeting of the Synod of Bishops.

The team, headed by the prominent educationalist, Mary Metcalfe, was established after the 2020 Provincial Standing Committee discussed the controversy on social media earlier that year on the experience of past and present scholars at private schools, including Anglican schools.

The report tabled in February was its third, and its work continues. Pursuant to a request by the Church’s Provincial Media Committee at its February meeting, the Archbishop has directed that the full interim report should be published here.

Note: In response to an inquiry from the Sunday Times, Johannesburg, concerning the team’s work, Archbishop Makgoba said “I am happy that under the efficient leadership of Mary Metcalfe it has made a good start to its work.” He added:

“Our schools are not under the direct control of the Church. The schools are governed by their own councils, on which the Church is usually represented. From what I have heard, the schools welcome the dialogue and guidance which the Task Team facilitates.”

Issued after their meeting from February 23 to 26, 2021.

Dear People of God,

Grace and Peace be with you!

The Synod of Bishops of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa met, prayed, discussed, and shared together under the leadership of Archbishop Thabo, Archbishop of Cape Town, and Metropolitan of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa.

Due to the restrictions imposed on our various nations due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Synod of Bishops was held virtually. Notwithstanding the vagaries of technology and participants being occasionally disconnected, Synod was a success and the normal sense of collegiality enjoyed in our meetings was again evident.

The busy schedule centred around the daily offices and input from Mr Douglas Board, speaking from London, and Dr Annemarie Paulin-Campbell of the Jesuit Institute from Johannesburg. Their inputs on our Encounter with God, and our Spiritual Journey were deeply challenging and moving. Synod was inspired and empowered by their input, and deeply appreciative of the hard work put into their presentations.

Synod observed a moment of silence and offered prayers in memory of Bishop Ellinah Wamukoya who died recently from COVID-19 complications. She was a valued member of the Bench and will be greatly missed. May her soul rest in peace and rise in glory. Synod noted that the Archbishop of Canterbury has conferred, posthumously, the Langton Award for Community Service on Bishop Ellinah. The award, named after Stephen Langton (Archbishop of Canterbury in the 13th century), is made “for outstanding contributions to the community in accordance with the Church’s teaching”.

Synod of Bishops approved and gave authority under Article ii to dealing with Canon 4, Of the Election of Bishops, in the light of the lockdown restrictions imposed across all the countries of ACSA. This special resolution will permit the Archbishop to promulgate and hold Elective Assemblies, under special provisions, in those Dioceses currently without Episcopal leadership. The Elective Assemblies have twice been postponed due to lockdown restrictions, and it is imperative that we elect and consecrate episcopal leadership in these Dioceses. Synod expressed deep appreciation for the work of the Vicars-General who have served the Church so selflessly during this time of interregnum. Their ministry has gone above and beyond the call of duty.

Synod of Bishops gave further authority under Article ii on the holding of Vestries, Canon 27, that these may continue under the conditions approved by this Synod.

The motion approved at the last Provincial Standing Committee on Gender-Based Violence, and the need to increase the representation of women in positions of leadership in the local Church and the Province was endorsed. This important work was discussed in light of the serious threat posed by patriarchal dominance which seeks to destroy, often violently, the God-given ability of women and their call to leadership in the Church.

Synod of Bishops reflected on the challenges presented by the COVID-19 Pandemic. These included the economic and health issues before us. Time was spent exploring how we believe God is calling the church to minister and grow under these ‘new-normal’ circumstances.

Synod of Bishops noted the Provincial Synod to be held in September of this year, and the new date for the Lambeth Conference in 2022.

Synod was presented with the exciting and important developments within the Portuguese-speaking Dioceses of ACSA, which are to become a new Province in the Anglican Communion, named Igreja Anglicana de Moçambique e Angola (IAMA) (the Anglican Church of Mozambique and Angola). This development is indicative of the growth within ACSA for which we give God the glory. During Synod news from the Anglican Communion Office was received that approval has been granted for this project to continue in its exploration and preparation. Final approval for the creation of this new Province is still to be granted, but an important first step has been successfully completed.

Professor Mary Metcalfe, speaking on behalf of a highly qualified team, presented a progress report on their investigation into racism in Anglican Schools. This is an ongoing investigation. The work completed thus far has set a precedent for a way of listening and beginning the work of addressing the removal of the pain and disabling effect of racism, which for so many has been a lifetime of experience. It is clear this is a process and cannot be quickly addressed.

Lay Canon Rosalie Manning addressed Synod on both the Safe and Inclusive Church and Human Sexuality Commissions. The importance of this work cannot be over-estimated, and after discussion with the Bishops there was unanimous agreement that further work and training is required.

Synod noted the following with deep concern:

• The impact of the insurgency in Cabo Delgado within the Diocese of Nampula in the north-eastern part of Mozambique, leading to loss of life and trauma for those living under this threat; and
• The deteriorating situation in the Tigray Province of Ethiopia.

Synod expressed a unanimous desire that both these intolerable situations be addressed and resolved. Bishop Manuel Ernesto of Nampula was assured of our prayers at this time. The statement on Tigray published in the name of Archbishop Thabo was duly adopted. Synod also noted the damage inflicted on Mozambique by recent cyclones and assured the people of Mozambique of our prayers and support.

Synod was also told that the mortal remains which were exhumed during the building of the airport in St Helena are yet to be re-interred. Synod was requested to pray and bring moral pressure to bear for the remains to be accorded the dignity of reburial as a matter of urgency.

Several Bishops have been asked to stand in positions of leadership in both public and community life. Bishop Carlos of Lebombo chairs Mozambique’s National Elections Commission; Bishop Charles of the Highveld is the chair of the Church Unity Commission. It was also reported that the Revd Dr Vicentia Kgabe, Principal of the College of the Transfiguration, was invited to join the Board of the Theological Education by Extension College (TEEC). Synod also congratulated Bishop William, Christ the King and Bishop Vicente, Niassa, as well as Bishop Moses Madywabe and Bishop Eddie Daniels, on the anniversaries of their Consecrations. The news that the Revd Thandeka Vikilahle has been appointed as the first woman Dean of Mthatha was received with great joy.

A commitment was made to rediscover the important role the South African Anglican Theological Commission (SAATC) plays in our prophetic leadership and witness to the world. Bishop Raphael of Saldanha Bay chairs this Commission. There is a need to source additional and younger members of the Commission, and for discussion to filter deeper into the ACSA.

Time was spent exploring the role and future development of education in our Church. This included discussion on the important role of the College of the Transfiguration (CoTT), noting that the changing dynamics caused by the Pandemic and lockdown will necessitate a prayerful and bold process of envisioning. A strong plea was made that we support CoTT and not lose this heritage of which we can be justifiably proud. Synod approved the creation of a committee to explore further the developments already under way concerning CoTT.

Discussion also ensued on the role our Anglican Schools play in the life of the Diocese, the Church and Southern Africa. These schools play an important part in the life of the church and require our full support. Synod noted that the position of Executive Director of the Anglican Board of Education (ABE) is being advertised due to the contract with the Revd Roger Cameron having concluded. Synod expressed grateful appreciation for the sterling work and ministry of the Revd Roger Cameron. Synod agreed he would be made an Honorary Canon of the Province.

Synod of Bishops received a report from Bishop Dintoe, Free State, on our young people. Great appreciation was expressed for their leadership and life within the church and assured them of the support of the Bench of Bishops, and of our desire to see them assume their rightful place in the life of the church as an investment for our future and as an asset at this time.

Synod of Bishops discussed the issues around the motion from Provincial Synod giving the ACSA’s support for Palestine. A group appointed by the Archbishop has endeavoured to listen to both sides of the debate and has agreed to continue offering support to the people of Palestine in the light of the oppression and restrictions imposed upon them. The similarities with Apartheid cannot be ignored. Neither can we ignore that Scripture is used to condone this oppression. The use of Scripture challenges both the gospel and the church to address this issue in the light of Christ. In this we note the motion did not support the use of violence on either side of this conflict. Synod takes this matter seriously and has asked the Archbishop to bring it before Lambeth 2022.

Synod of Bishops gave their approval of a petition questioning the granting of permission for fracking in the Kavango Region of Namibia. The probability of environmental degradation occurring due to fracking is too great to ignore and must be carefully investigated before permission is granted. Synod was unanimous that drilling must be halted with immediate effect.

Bishop Charles, the Synod’s Liaison Bishop for the SACC, tabled an SACC Statement on the danger of South Africa being destabilised by the refusal of witnesses to appear before the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture. Synod shared the SACC’s concern that disrespect for the law can destabilise South Africa. Given the country’s immediate past, South Africa cannot afford such a threat. Synod of Bishops supports the SACC’s call and asks parishioners to be vigilant in ensuring equality before the law for all. We call on all to respect and work to uphold the law. No one is or should be above the law.

In these uncertain times, the words of the First Letter of Peter on hope ring true: “Cast all your anxiety on Jesus because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7) May it be so for each of you. Amen

[The Communique has been updated since first published to add the concern over St Helena, to correct the name of the new Province, and to make two other small corrections.]

COMMUNIQUE FROM THE SYNOD OF BISHOPS

ANGLICAN CHURCH OF SOUTHERN AFRICA

SEPTEMBER 2020

To the beloved People of God,

Grace and peace to you!

The Synod of Bishops met virtually by video conferencing from Bishopscourt and Diocesan Centres from Monday 21 September to Tuesday 22 September 2020 as result of the challenging times prompted by Covid-19. Despite these difficulties there is much to be celebrated in the Province for faithful and committed service throughout the 150 years of our history in a world of human failure, corruption and violence. The Service of Celebration on Sunday 20 September 2020 with the Archbishop of Canterbury was witnessed by many people across the Province and the Anglican Communion.

Synod began with Morning Prayer, where we heard a homily from the Rt Revd Luke Pato, Bishop of Namibia, on the Season of Creation. The emphasis on Eden as a place of communion with God and harmony with the created order set the scene for a discussion of issues of violence, injustice, corruption and inequality, which are prevalent in our countries.

The Archbishop welcomed the Bishop of Table Bay, the Rt Revd Joshua Louw, who was attending Synod for the first time. The presenting Bishops, the Rt Revd Margaret Vertue and the Rt Revd Raphael Hess, reported on Bishop Joshua’s Consecration and Installation to bring on board those bishops who could not attend the service. Comments were made about the beauty of the liturgy, its awe and reverence. Also in attendance at Synod were three Vicars-General, the Very Revd Tanki Mofana from Lesotho, the Very Revd Carol Starkey from Kimberley and Kuruman and the Very Revd Ndabezinhle Sibisi from Natal. The Archbishop expressed his appreciation for the quality of leadership displayed by the Vicars-General, especially in Natal where there had been some serious challenges.

Synod met against the backdrop of COVID-19 and reflected on the impact of the pandemic and lockdown on families and the mission and ministry of the Church. Synod shared experiences and struggles of people and churches as a result of COVID. Most parishes adopted “virtual worship” initiatives by offering services via Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp and the like. Lesotho opened a new radio station. The biggest challenge was the inability to retain all stipendiary Clergy on the payroll in some Dioceses. It was suggested that our church must learn to move away from cash collections to swipe machines as many organisations already do that.

Synod received preliminary reports on the Archbishop’s Commissions on Human Sexuality, Safe and Inclusive Church and on the election of Women to the Episcopate.

The Archbishop’s Commission on Human Sexuality called on the bishops to note that the issue of Human Sexuality concerns more than the question of Same-Sex Unions. It is a human experience involving physical, emotional and spiritual dimensions that require theological, structural and social responses from the Church. It was noted with sadness that in most Dioceses clergy are reluctant to discuss this issue. It was recommended that the Pastoral Guidelines for Same-Sex Unions be completed as a matter of urgency. The Commission further revealed that of one million babies born in South Africa in 2019, 60% are from single parents and of those, about 40% were cared for by women alone. Many men do not take the responsibility of family and children. Gender-based Violence (GBV) is also a result of this kind of behaviour.

Bishop Margaret Vertue addressed the Bishops on GBV and highlighted that it escalated during lockdown, especially during the first few weeks. It was recommended that adequate teaching and awareness-raising on abuse be offered to men and then children. There is a great need for perpetrators and the Church as a whole to repent for its complicity and silence in the face of Gender-based Violence. Male priests have often in the past tended to take sides with perpetrators, so determined are they to save marriages. As a result, victims are forced to declare forgiveness for perpetrators against their will or when they are not yet ready to do so. The Church needs eyes to see the problem, ears to hear the victims and big hearts to respond with courage and compassion.

Synod was strongly challenged to be intentional in its efforts to improve the participation of women in the leadership of the Church. Much more attention needs to be given to establishing and strengthening support mechanisms for women. The election of women to the episcopate needs to be discussed in the context of wider gender conversations.

The Dioceses in Mozambique and Angola updated Synod members on the vision for the formation of a Portuguese-speaking Province. Synod reaffirmed its support for the vision. We also heard of the plight of victims of terrorism in Cabo Delgado and Central regions. The Synod was informed of the creation of the Anglican Peace and Reconciliation Initiative for Mozambique and Angola (APRIMA), which has its aim spreading the gospel message by physically sharing life with the displaced, channelling Christian and humanitarian solidarity to the affected and developing community dialogue. The team from APRIMA appreciated the encouragement and support given for these developments and appealed to Synod for more support.

Synod expressed its deepest gratitude to the team that put together and managed the technology for video conferencing, including the Ven Grant Walters, Quintin Christian and his team. Everything worked exceptionally well.

We commend you to God’s love and keeping, and ask you to remember us in prayer as we meet in Provincial Standing Committee to discern God’s will as we grapple with the critical issues that face us as Church.

^“To him who is able to keep you from falling, and to make you stand without blemish in the presence of his glory with rejoicing – to the only God our Saviour, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, power and authority, before all time and now and forever! Amen.” — Jude 24-25

To the beloved People of God,

Grace and Peace to you!

The regular February session of the Synod of Bishops convened in The Outlook Lodge at Kempton Park, Gauteng, in the Diocese of the Highveld from Sunday 9 February to Thursday 13 February.

Bishop of Table Bay

On Sunday, an Electoral College to elect a Bishop for Table Bay was constituted, during which the Bishops considered the unique challenges facing the Diocese of Cape Town. After discernment the Venerable Joshua Louw, Rector of St Paul’s Church and Archdeacon of the Waterfront in Cape Town, was elected as Bishop of Table Bay.

States of Emergency

The Synod of Bishops met from Monday 10 to Thursday 13 February. Formal sessions of the Synod were preceded by a unique first: a joint meeting of the Provincial Guilds and Organisations, Hope Africa, and Green Anglicans. This historic gathering reflected on ways to implement the resolutions of Provincial Synod 2019. We agreed to declare a “State of Emergency” with regards to Gender-Based Violence and Climate Change, which must be addressed by putting strategic programmes in place as a matter of urgency at Provincial, Diocesan and Parochial level.

Worship

Our worship, as always, was inspiring and challenging at the same time. We were made to think hard about the creation of “holy spots” in our churches (Mark 6:53ff); Then we were invited into the reality of “doubting certainty” as reflected in Solomon’s prayer (1 Kings 8:23ff) and a consideration of the tensions between reason and faith, often being tested by hard questions requiring great wisdom to answer, just as Solomon was tested by the Queen of Sheba (1 Kings 10.1). Finally we were challenged both to recognise the power of humble faith to courageously break through barriers to reach those among the marginalised who are seeking healing, as in the case of the Syrophoenician woman in Mark 7:24-30, and to overcome our own prejudices by God’s grace to open the way for healing to take place.

Welcomes and recognition

The Archbishop welcomed everyone, especially the Bishop of St Mark the Evangelist and the Bishop of Mzimvubu, who were attending the Synod of Bishops for the first time as Diocesan Bishops. The Vicar-General of Kimberley and Kuruman, the Revd Canon Carol Starkey, and the Vicar-General of Natal, the Very Revd Ndabenzinhle Sibisi, were also especially welcomed. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Bishop Mlibo Ngewu.

After evening prayer on Monday, the Archbishop honoured Ms Tricia Sibbons with the Archbishop’s Peace with Justice Award for her service to the Diocese of Johannesburg spanning thirty years.

The Role of Women in the Church

We valued assistance given to us when we considered our role as transformational leaders. Findings arising out of the Archbishop’s Commission on the election of women highlighted the large number of ordained women in contrast to the few ordained women in senior positions. An appeal was made to the Synod of Bishops to forward more comments, suggestions and questions to the Commission to assist them in carrying out their work, to chart a more proactive way, subject to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, of getting women elected as bishops. The Bishops concurred that gender equity is not about women but about justice.

The theology and vocation of the Episcopate

Synod spent some time reflecting on the theology and vocation of bishops. The physical endurance, depth of spirituality and mental strength required of the bishop was brought into sharp relief by exploring an example of surviving solitary confinement and complete reliance on God as the supreme source of hope and strength in adversity through a presentation by Mr Thabo Ndabeni. He highlighted the importance of self-care. Bishops were given time for personal sharing and asked to support each other in the exercise of the onerous responsibilities the episcopal office demands of them. Bishops were made to realise that weakness is not a sign of failure and to seek help when needed. The sharing gave rise to the adoption of a Mutual Accountability Pro-Forma to be shared at every Synod of Bishops meeting.

The Final Sabbath Call

The Revd Dr Kenneth Mtata addressed Synod on “The Final Sabbath Call” issued by the Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations. Zimbabwe’s tortuous history has created deep insecurity within those with power who hold political office. This insecurity has led to years of oppression. The past has not been dealt with and all leaders are haunted by the past, resulting in a nation in pain.

Zimbabwe’s fortieth anniversary is seen as symbolic of Israel’s journey in the Wilderness. The Sabbath calls for a moratorium on all elections in order to create space for re-imagining a new future for the country and its people. Synod responded to the call for ACSA to stand in solidarity and support of the Sabbath Call by appointing a liaison Bishop to the Zimbabwe Council of Churches; by agreeing to make prayer and action a standing item on the agenda of Synod of Bishops, by participating in solidarity visits and by sponsoring an ordinand to attend the College of the Transfiguration.

Liturgical development

A discussion on the experience of using the revised Ordination Liturgies was engaged in. Although they were widely used and enthusiastically received, written responses requested by the Liturgical Committee were still awaited. The pressing need for succession planning to identify and train future liturgists was noted as an urgent need that must be addressed. The report from the Advisory Board on Theological Education highlighted the need for lifelong learning and ministerial formation. The key goal of the Board was the ongoing professional, ministerial and spiritual development of the clergy.

A new Lusophone Province

We were given a comprehensive overview of the vast Dioceses of Angola and Mozambique. The vision to multiply the number of Dioceses in Angola and Mozambique was motivated with conviction. This deep plea by the Portuguese-speaking Dioceses was enthusiastically received and endorsed by us. In time it is envisaged that growing the number of Dioceses in both areas will enable them to apply to form a united new Province. Significantly our agreement to set the process in motion comes when ACSA is celebrating its 150th anniversary as a Province.

Further Synod Business

Hope Africa

After an overview of the social development programmes and projects run by Hope Africa, and the dire financial situation within which Hope Africa finds itself, the Bishops were asked to consider proposing a Provincial Synod Resolution that all Dioceses contribute 0.7 percent of their annual income to Hope Africa, and making it a development resolution of permanent force.

Youth Ministry

The Bishops grappled with the funding of Youth Ministry after a comprehensive report on the challenges experienced by our Provincial Youth structures.

Resolution on Palestine

Resolution 4 of Provincial Synod 2019, declaring solidarity with Palestine, caused consternation in many quarters. A sobering presentation was given by Mrs Dudu Mahlangu Masango, World Council of Churches’ coordinator for the Southern African Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel. She gave us a heart-rending description of what Palestinians go through as seen through the lens of the Accompaniment Programme.

Pastoral guidelines on human sexuality

The preparation of these Pastoral Guidelines is ongoing. A small committee was formed to do preliminary work to develop terms and references in line with last year’s Provincial Synod resolution.

Safe Church

Recognising the devastating detrimental effects of abuse, including sexual abuse, on the lives of vulnerable children and adults, the Bishops have spent a great deal of effort in recent years on putting systems in place to deal with this scourge. Apart from the overriding importance of ministering to the victims and disciplining the perpetrators of such abuses, the cost to the Church if found wanting in the case of a law suit could be crippling financially and reputationally. Ensuring that all churches in our Province are Safe and Inclusive Church compliant is a matter of great urgency. By September this year all ministers, ordained and lay, must be compliant or their licences will no longer be valid.

Clergy in political office

The Bishops have crafted a set of pastoral guidelines to apply when Clergy want to participate in party political activities. We agreed they were a work in progress and they will be published in due course.

Expropriation of land without compensation in South Africa

We were reminded that land expropriation without compensation is a burning issue potentially affecting our parishes. Dioceses must ensure that they have an up-to-date register of church properties and note whether they hold title deeds or permission to occupy these properties. Theologians will be requested to produce a theology underpinning Church ownership of land. We also need to develop practical guides on how to develop land which is owned by the Church.

Amendments to the Canons

The Bishops spent time making sure that the Canons amended at Provincial Synod are understood. These include Canons 4, 34, 35, 38, 39, and 42.

The Bible Society

The Bible Society, celebrating its two-hundredth anniversary this year, made a presentation to Synod detailing the impressive milestones they have achieved in their ministry of Bible translation and making Bibles accessible to more and more people. ACSA was thanked for its ongoing financial support and an appeal was made for us to continue our support of the Bible Society.

Inspiration

The leading South African social and business entrepreneur, Mr Isaac Shongwe, chairman of Letsema Business Management Consultants, gave an inspiring concluding presentation on “Journey on Management, Administration and Leadership”. It was stimulating, thought-provoking and challenging in terms of what is expected of Bishops and the roles they have to fulfill in the exercise of their episcopal ministry and the many demands on their time. It highlighted the need to be equipped with skills that high-level leadership requires to be effective and efficient, given the demands of the challenges we face in today’s world.

The Dean of the Province, Bishop Stephen Diseko, proposed a vote of thanks. Archbishop Thabo Makgoba gave the Benediction and declared the Synod of Bishops dissolved.

“So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you as long as I live. So I will bless you as long as I live; I will lift up my hands and call on your name.” – Psalm 63:2-4

A printable PDF copy of this Communique is available here >>

COMMUNIQUE FROM THE SYNOD OF BISHOPS

ANGLICAN CHURCH OF SOUTHERN AFRICA

SEPTEMBER 2019

To the beloved People of God,

Grace and peace to you!

The Synod of Bishops met in Kopanong, Benoni, from Monday 23 to Tuesday 24 September 2019. The Synod was preceded by the meeting of the Electoral College for the Diocese of Mzimvubu, where the Rt Revd Tsietsi Seleoane, currently Suffragan Bishop of Natal, was elected as Bishop of Mzimvubu.

Synod began with the celebration of the Eucharist, where we heard a refreshing homily from the Rt Revd Steve Moreo, Bishop of Johannesburg, on the passage in the book of Ezra about the return of Israel. Ezra’s ministry, to help a people returning to rebuild, renew and reform their social, religious and physical lives, resonated well with the commitment of ACSA – expressed in the theme of Provincial Synod – to review, renew and restore with a view to reconnecting our faith to our daily lives.

The Archbishop welcomed the Bishop of Port Elizabeth, the Rt Revd Eddie Daniels, and Bishop-elect Luke Pretorius of the Diocese of St Mark the Evangelist, who were attending Synod for the first time. Also in attendance were two Vicars-General, the Ven Keith de Vos from Cape Town and the Very Revd Tanki Mofana from Lesotho.

Synod met against the backdrop of confusion in the South African political landscape, of fresh outbreaks of xenophobic attacks against fellow Africans from other nations and of renewed activism over the scourge of violence against women, children and other vulnerable people. This situation is very disturbing and cause for major concern, and we endorse our Archbishop’s appeal to the Church to join civil society in mobilising to end these evils.

We urge girls in our Church to demand an end to the way in which too many boys and men in our society treat women. We urge boys to set an example to the rest of society by treating all, especially girls and women, with respect, dignity and compassion. Let Anglican youth groups throughout our Province become renowned for being safe spaces in which young women feel valued and young men are admired in their communities for their caring and respectful treatment of girls and women.

We also urge people in our parishes to stand up for other vulnerable people such as migrants in South Africa. As disciples of Christ we are bound to be sensitive to God’s people who happen to come from outside our borders. We condemn the violence meted out against them, we express our condolences to those who have lost members of their families and we share our prayers for the traumatised.

We remind all of the words of Joshua: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

In our discussions on situations outside South Africa, our hearts were warmed as we heard the good news of the successful peace initiatives in Mozambique and prayed for that country as they prepare for elections.

Bishops shared the sadness and pain around the resignation of the Bishop of Natal, the Right Revd Dino Gabriel. The Bishops accepted his resignation and resolved to show their love, care and support for the Diocesan family and for Bishop Dino and his family. The Bishops resolved that Pastoral Letters on the situation should be sent to the Diocese and to the Bishop.

Further reflection ensued on the Diocese of Zululand, where the Rt Revd Monument Makhanya resigned last year. The Archbishop reported that he had asked the Archbishop of the Province of Central Africa to minister to Bishop Makhanya for three months. The Vicars-General of the Diocese, retired Bishop Funginkosi Mbhele and Canon Hamilton Mbatha, will continue their ministry of oversight and pastoral care in the Diocese. 

Synod discussed ways of ministering to the Rt Revd Adam Taaso, the Bishop of Lesotho, who has suffered an incapacitating stroke, and his family. In consultation with the Diocese, it was agreed that he should go on retirement with effect from 31 January 2020.

We noted that no women clergy have recently been elected as bishops and agreed that there should be an intentional effort to investigate why this is the case. The Archbishop has established a commission to do this work.

A report was presented by Lay Canon Rosalie Manning on ensuring a Safe & Inclusive Church in which no one suffers abuse of any kind. Professor Barney Pityana presented a preliminary report on the Archbishop’s Commission on the College of the Transfiguration. We also heard a report on the Archbishop’s Commission on Human Sexuality. All three reports were scheduled to go before Provincial Synod.

Synod also discussed the issue of clergy who are active card-carrying members of political parties. It was agreed that the practice should not be encouraged as it has potential to polarise congregations. We also reflected on the way in which we could emphasise the importance of saving the environment by moving towards holding paperless synods. Bishops also expressed concern for the sustainability of HOPE Africa. 

The Bishops bade farewell to Bishop Oswald Swartz, Bishop of Kimberley and Kuruman as he goes on retirement. Bishop Ossie was thanked for his wonderful episcopal ministry in ACSA.

We commend you to God’s love and keeping and ask you to remember us in prayer as we meet in Provincial Synod to discern God’s will as we grapple with some of the critical issues that face us as Church.

^“To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy — to the only God our Saviour be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.” — Jude 24-25

Seeing More Clearly

Pastoral Letter from the Synod of Bishops

Anglican Church of Southern Africa (ACSA)

Download PDF here >>

21^st February 2019

Dear People of God,

We greet you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

As Bishops of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa (ACSA), we met in Synod in Benoni from Monday 18^th to Thursday 21^st February. ACSA includes the countries of Mozambique, Angola, Namibia, St Helena, Swaziland, Lesotho and South Africa. We welcomed Bishop Dale Bowers, the new Bishop of St Helena, into our fellowship. We rejoiced that Eddie Daniels will be consecrated Bishop of Port Elizabeth on Saturday 23^rd February. We were joined by the Vicars General of the Dioceses of Mzimvubu and Zululand. We said farewell to Bishops Martin Breytenbach (St Mark the Evangelist in Limpopo) and Garth Counsell (Table Bay), who will retire before our next meeting – and gave thanks for their ministries among us.

We welcomed Presiding Bishop Michael Curry and his team from The Episcopal Church (TEC) for two of our morning sessions. He shared with us the journey of TEC in the areas of marriage and human sexuality; and Safe Church – issues which we worked on during Synod of Bishops.

As always, our meeting took place within a rhythm of prayer, worship and fellowship. During our time together we shared at a personal level and wrestled with issues facing the church, local communities and our various countries.

In our readings from Mark 8 Jesus encountered various kinds of blindness. The religious leaders were not willing to see spiritually and demanded a sign even when Jesus had been working miracles among them (Mark 8:11). Jesus’ disciples failed to understand what he was doing. He said to them, “Do you still not perceive or understand? Are your hearts hardened? Do you have eyes, and fail to see? Do you have ears, and fail to hear?” (Mark 8:17-18). A blind man came to Jesus for healing. Jesus said him, “Can you see anything?” (Mark 8:23). At first he could not see clearly, but as Jesus prayed for him again his sight was fully restored.

Similarly we found that, as we looked carefully and deeply into a number of difficult issues, God began to open our eyes so that we could see and understand better. May God continue to do that work in us, and use us to lead the church into clearer vision on these things.

Human Sexuality

We received a report from the Archbishop’s Commission on Human Sexuality. The main goal of the Commission at this stage is to bring revised Pastoral Guidelines to Provincial Synod in September this year. As part of this process, the Commission will continue to conduct regional consultations in various parts of Southern Africa. Dioceses, parishes and organisations have been asked to hold workshops based on case studies and using questions that have been prepared and sent to the Diocesan Reference Teams. Feedback should be sent to the Commission by the end of June: humansexuality@anglicanchurchsa.org.za .

In all of this we were challenged by the call to learn to live with our differences, and even to live with contradiction. We realised that it will be a long term process in which we listen to God and one another. We have made mistakes in the past and will make mistakes in the future, but we are determined to journey together in the love of God and mutual respect. We are committed to finding and upholding the values of Jesus in marriage and relationships.

Safe Church Ministry

We spent a day workshopping how the church can best respond to abuse in all its forms and overcome it, so that all people can experience the Church as a safe and inclusive space. This is a process taking place throughout the Anglican Communion. Through several case studies and discussions, we considered:

• The Charter for the safety of people within the churches of the Anglican Communion
• The theological Principles that need to undergird our responses
• The Process of dealing with complaints and allegations, including forms that can be used to report them and sent to: safechurch@anglicanchurchsa.org
• The Structures that we need to put in place, such as changes to the Canons of the Church, response teams in every Diocese, and a central register to keep records.

Each Diocese is expected to set up a multi-disciplinary Safe Church Ministry Team. Training of these teams will take place later in the year, and changes to the Canons will be proposed at Provincial Synod in September. Each of the Bishops made a commitment to the Safe Church process in ACSA.

Throughout the workshop it became clear to us that a culture of secrecy about abuse is “demonic” and leads to darkness. Perhaps it comes from a fear of telling the truth, yet it is the truth that sets us free (John 8:32) and leads us into the light. We need to approach these things with deep humility, aware of our own failures, keeping the difficult balance between pastoral care for all involved and legal processes that may be required.

Resignation of the Bishop of Zululand

The Bishops considered carefully our response to the resignation of Bishop Monument Makhanya of Zululand after allegations of sexual misconduct were received. We supported the Archbishop’s acceptance of his resignation and have commented on this more fully in a Pastoral Letter addressed to the people of the Diocese of Zululand  [DOWNLOAD USING LINK] Parallel processes are being set up to care pastorally for all involved, and to institute the required Canonical steps to investigate the allegations.

Diocese of Angola

The Synod of Bishops agreed that, after a long journey, the Missionary Diocese of Angola should be granted the status of a full Diocese, with Bishop André Soares as its first Diocesan Bishop. This is an immense achievement and a source of great rejoicing as we recognise how the Anglican Church in Angola has grown. We are looking forward to the inauguration of the new Diocese and to the installation of the first Bishop of the fully-fledged Diocese after Provincial Synod in September.

Missionary Diocese of Nampula

Following the decisions of Synod of Bishops and Provincial Standing Committee last September, the inauguration of the new Missionary Diocese of Nampula – formerly part of Niassa in northern Mozambique – will be celebrated on Saturday 16^th March. Former Regional Suffragan Bishop Manuel Ernesto will be installed as the first Bishop of this Missionary Diocese.

College of the Transfiguration

We rejoiced at the news that the College of the Transfiguration (COTT) has a full complement of 61 students this year, and gave thanks for generous donations that have made it possible for several poorer, women students to attend. Nevertheless it remains a challenge to support our only residential Theological College – and we appeal for your prayers and generosity. A COTT Foundation has been established to raise much needed funds.

We also received a preliminary report from the Commission into Theological Education, and look forward to their recommendations at Provincial Synod. We spent some time responding to the report of the Advisory Board on Theological Education by sharing our Diocesan processes to identify, train and nurture those whom God is calling into the ordained ministry. This included a report on progress at St Christopher’s College in Maputo. We found that we can all learn from one another, but were encouraged by how similar our approaches are.

Canon Law Council

Synod of Bishops spent time receiving a report from the Canon Law Council about proposed changes to the Canons at Provincial Synod. Among the more far reaching proposals are:

• Major changes to Canon 4 on the Election of Bishops;
• Changes to Canon 18 on factors to be taken into account when considering those who are nominated for election as Bishop;
• An amendment to Canon 21 to address the situation where a Diocese falls behind in its assessment to the Common Provincial Fund or Provincial Pension Fund;
• Changes to Canon 26, to clarify the role, deployment and licensing of Self-Supporting clergy;
• An amendment to Canon 34 to clarify the requirements for the marriage of clergy who have been divorced;
• To rearrange the layout and presentation of the Canons so that they are easier to follow and use.

Please pray for Provincial Synod as they prepare to debate and decide on changes to the Constitution and Canons of ACSA.

Other Important Issues

There is never enough time to address everything in depth, but we also had other useful discussions:

• We agreed to a policy for the use of social media;
• We heard about the need for deep work to be done to establish racial justice – not only in Southern Africa, but throughout the world;
• We received an update on the state of the Provincial Pension Fund – and were reminded that it is critical for Dioceses to keep up with their contributions;
• We had a very helpful talk and discussion on stress, trauma and self-care.

In our final reading from Mark 8:27-33, Jesus challenged his disciples, “Who do you say that I am?”. When Peter confessed, “You are the Messiah” Jesus “began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.” Peter and the other disciples found this hard to accept – but Jesus insisted that the cross was the only way.

In the same way we would have preferred to avoid facing up to the difficult issues before us, especially since they often expose our own failings and weaknesses. But by the power of the Holy Spirit we did our best to address them honestly and in love. We believe that we have come to see many things more clearly during this time.

We commend our reflections and work to you and ask you to continue to pray for us in our leadership role. In the name of God we implore you to open your hearts, minds, ears and eyes to what God is doing and saying in the church and world today. Thank you for your partnership in the gospel. We love you in Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour.

1^ Web Site Reference

The February meeting of the Church’s Synod of Bishops has issued a Pastoral Letter to the Diocese of Zululand, outlining the steps to be taken after the recent resignation of the Bishop of Zululand, the Right Revd Monument Makhanya.

In the letter, the Bishops said they had accepted the Bishop’s resignation, welcomed the Archbishop’s appointment of two Vicars-General, and outlined the pastoral and legal processes which will now be followed. Read and download the full text of the letter >>