Sometimes the legal arrangement of benefices, parishes or churches needs to be changed to make the most effective use of resources to support mission and ministry for the church and parish to make better provision for the cure of souls. This can be done by transferring parishes to a different benefice, changing the status of the benefice to a Team or Group Ministry, or closing church buildings.
Pastoral reorganisation is a statutory process governed by the Church Commissioners under the Mission and Pastoral Measure 2011. This is generally done by Pastoral Schemes or Orders after consultation where relevant with all interested parties such as the PCC, clergy, patrons, rural deans and synod representatives.
Often a benefice is subject to Suspension of Presentation which means the patrons rights to appoint an incumbent are suspended. The two main reasons for doing this are to consider a pastoral reorganisation where the benefice would cease to exist or for the replacement of a parsonage house.
Proposals are first discussed locally with the parishes, patrons and the Area Archdeacon before approval is requested from the Diocesan Mission and Pastoral Committee (DMPC). The DMPC must consider the tradition, needs and characteristics of the community, their worship and mission and any financial implications before recommending a proposal to the Bishop. When approved by the Bishop there are a series of consultations and publications before any proposal is finally approved by the Church Commissioners.
New legislation is in discussion to update the current Mission and Pastoral Measure to simplify the process.
For any queries regarding pastoral reorganisation or suspension of presentation please contact the Pastoral and Legal Support Officer – Joanna Pelan Joanna.pelan@dioceseofnorwich.org