Why You Should Come to the Annual General Meeting…

It’s Annual General Meeting season in Anglican churches all over Sydney so people like me are getting excited. March 29 at 2pm could not come soon enough. But I also know that for some, the three letters AGM are code for bring a pillow and prepare to be bored. Indeed, there is so much important ministry that we can invest our time in, that church governance meetings tend to be treated like superannuation portfolios - you know something important is happening somewhere but you are not quite sure what. Well, can I suggest that being a member of our church means this meeting is one of the more important things you can attend this year. 

All of us own a stake in the mission. Together we are praying towards 3000 wholehearted disciples of Jesus. We long to see people young and old, coming to know and love Jesus. And truth be told, showing up at the AGM is one important way we steward our future. Here’s why.

First, we get to hear more about our church vision and direction. What are we doing together? How is that being tracked and measured? How can you play your part in this? The AGM is a moment in time to get more deeply engaged in who we are and where we are going as a church under God. 

Secondly, we hold elections each year for important office holders who guide and govern the work of our church. I would like to see men and women, young and more mature, nominated and elected to all our church roles.

At the AGM this year we will be electing:

Wardens - these 3 people ensure the proper administration and management of finances, property and staff.

Parish Councillors - these are the people who determine Parish policy, approve budgets and payments and confer with the minister on matters of ministry

Parish Nominators - these are the 5 people who, in consultation with the church and Bishop, choose a new senior minister should the current one depart.

Synod Representatives - these are the 2 people who represent our church at the annual Anglican synod (think parliament) for a term of 3 years. 

All the information about these roles and how to make nominations is available here:

Third, we get to examine and scrutinise church finances and financial decisions. Transparency in finances is absolutely critical for a church as we all give generously to the work of the Gospel. Here is your moment to see how your generosity is stewarded and ask questions about the way money is spent and given in and from our church. The 2025 audited accounts are now available on the website too.

Finally, there is a time to ask questions of what is happening at church or make suggestions for Parish Council to consider. There are not many moments in church life where you can do this publicly and this is an important one. And on top of that, we are also going to have a preview of our Future Building Masterplan this year which will be super exciting.

So, will you join us for the Christ Church St Ives 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday 29 March at 2pm in the church building? I would love to see you there!