Ivan Ball writes about the “bureaucracy” faced by groups of Church of England parishes that have been grouped together in single benefices (Letters, 26 February). In fact, many of the issues he raises can be addressed under existing or forthcoming church legislation.
It is possible under existing church legislation for groups of churches to come together in a “united parish” with a single parochial church council and a single church electoral roll. Last week the General Synod passed new legislation that will make it possible for “connected” parishes that are not in a “united parish” to establish a single joint council with a single bank account and charitable status, replacing the requirement for multiple parochial church councils.
Finally, the existing rules on electoral rolls allow for situations where parishioners travel to services within a group of churches. In such cases they may be counted on the electoral roll of the parish that they attend at least once a month.
We are continuing to review church legislation and welcome proposals that support the simplification strand, and the other strands, of the Church of England’s Renewal and Reform programme.
William Nye
Secretary general, Archbishops’ Council of the Church of England
• The Church in Wales Review of 2012 began a process of creating ministry/mission areas, allowing for the kind of flexibility Ivan Ball describes. It is, however, essential that parishes recognise the shortcomings of the present system and are prepared to embrace change. In some parts of Wales (including my former diocese of St Asaph) the change extends beyond the model of “one benefice, one priest”. Better ways of working are indeed possible, as long as both the church hierarchy and its grassroots are willing.
Rev Canon Adrian Copping
Woolpit, Suffolk
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