At the NCCA
The Covenanting Process in Australia
In 2004, at the fifth National Forum of the NCCA, in Adelaide, a very significant step was taken when a Multi-dimensional Covenanting Document was endorsed, signed and celebrated. It was the product of eight years of reflection and consultation. It was a renewed expression of the commitment churches had made to one another through their membership of the NCCA, specifying that commitment in particular undertakings. It has also been very well received internationally as a gift and model to the world.
Yet the event in Adelaide, momentous though it was, was always understood to be part of a process that would continue. This Commission has played a motivating role in that process, and during the years since 2004 has sought to remind the churches of the consequences of the commitment made. The purpose of this role has also been articulated in the WCC Assembly statement, “Called to be the One Church”, in which each church is reminded of the call to ‘mutual accountability’.
Click here for a copy of Australian Churches Covenanting Together
Click here foa an A5 pamphlet of Australian Churches Covenanting Together
Click here for a copy of the 2009 Commission reflections on the Covenanting process
Examples of Covenanting in Australia
Covenants have been agreed in many places and at several levels of church life in Australia (including between parishes & congregations and between different member Church dioceses). Contact your local State or Territory Ecumenical Body for further information as they may also be able to assist practically.
Click here for a helpful introduction to Covenanting LocallyThe following are just a few examples of local and diocesan covenants in operation in Australia:
some other examples of Covenants in the ACT & NSW
Maitland-Newcastle-Broken Bay Tri-Diocesan Covenant