Notes to guide the formation of a new congregation

  1. A meeting of interested persons should be held and an electoral roll prepared
  2. The Diocesan Secretary provides a designated contact person with a copy of Church Representation Rules. This will provide the way to arrange for the (inaugural) annual meeting, normally presided over by the Archdeacon, at which there can be
  3. A resolution recognising the Bishop of Gibraltar in Europe as their chief pastor, asking the lead Bishop for that area to recognise the congregation officially.
  4. Elections of Church Wardens
  5. Elections for Church Council
  6. Elections for lay vice chairman of council
  7. Any reports from priests or readers in the area with knowledge of the potential for ministry
  8. A report on finance
  9. A resolution affirming that the worship in the congregation will be according to the forms of service which are authorised or allowed by the canons of the Church of England.
  10. A recommendation about the name (dedication) of the congregation to be considered by the Lead Bishop.
  11. A resolution affirming that any national requirements for legal registration will be undertaken.
  1. A summary of the meeting and names and contact details of key elected officials is sent to the diocesan office, with copy to the Archdeacon and Lead Bishop.
  2. Other information to be forwarded to the Archdeacon and Lead Bishop at an early stage includes:
  3. The names of any potential lay leader (potential Congregational Worship Leader) to lead Morning or Evening prayer in the absence of a priest or reader.
  4. An assessment of the viability of the congregation, and the suitability of any linkages with existing congregations.
  5. The Diocesan Secretary provides the Church Wardens with
  6. a copy of the Diocesan Handbook
  7. a copy of Child Protection Policy of the Diocese in Europe
  8. a copy of PracticalChurch Management
  9. information related to options for priestly ministry along with the associated costs, terms and conditions: house-for-duty; part-time; full-time.
  10. any model constitutions which may be of help
  11. The Archdeacon (or the Diocesan Secretary) provides information regarding the national legal requirements for the establishment of an Anglican congregation.
  12. The Archdeacon advises about the possibility of a representative to Archdeaconry synod.
  13. A council meeting is held at which a vacancy can be announced in the position of priest-in-charge. The Archdeacon (or Lead Bishop) gives guidance regarding the process to fill the vacancy, and how oversight of the congregation is to be provided in the interim period.