Pastoral Measure
For most parishioners their first introduction to the Pastoral Measure is when the arrangement where they have the same parish priest as a neighbouring parish is formalised by them becoming one benefice.
Or perhaps there is a need to alter the boundary between parishes. More unusually, perhaps the church is closing and will no longer be used for worship. In all these situations the provisions of the Pastoral Measure apply.
When such changes are proposed consultations take place within the parish and with others with an interest. This is quite a long process, and differs whether the proposals are incorporated in a Pastoral Scheme or a Pastoral Order. Schemes deal with issues such as uniting benefices, or creating a team or group ministry. Altering the areas of a parish or benefice can be achieved by a Pastoral Order. Pastoral Church Building Schemes deal with the closure of churches for regular public worship. All of these consultations and discussions take place with pastoral sensitivity and a spirit of listening to each other.
The Dioceses Pastoral and Mission Measure 2007 set up provision for a Diocesan Bishop to make Bishop's Mission Orders. These formalise non traditional ways of being church, such as some Fresh Expressions of Church and give recognition to people working on the margins of church going.
If you think that a situation that requires a Pastoral Scheme, Order or Bishop's Mission Order exists in your parish please speak to your Archdeacon first.
More information about Pastoral Schemes may be found by clicking on this link.
Pastoral Schemes and Frequently used Terms (PDF 93.11kb)