Here is the text of the pastoral letter the Moderator of the PCANZ sent out following the GA decision to confirm the rule for sexuality and leadership.

General Assembly 2006

51 Roy St
Palmerston North 4410

29 September 2006

Dear Friends

Greetings in Christ to you all, from the General Assembly.

I am writing a letter to the whole church to let you know the results of the vote taken at the Assembly this morning on the issue of Sexuality and Leadership. The Notice of Motion read:

that the Assembly now adopt the following rule: The General Assembly now rules, in accordance with the Supreme and Subordinate standards of the Church and with the previous Assembly decisions, that this church may not accept for training, license, ordain or induct anyone involved in a sexual relationship outside of faithful marriage between a man and a woman. In relation to homosexuality, in the interests of natural justice, this ruling shall not prejudice anyone who, as at the date of this meeting has been accepted for training, licensed, ordained or inducted. (Note "the date of this meeting" is September 2004).

After vigorous and respectful debate, the motion was carried by 230 votes to 124 (65 percent in favour). This means the status quo of the past two years continues.

This issue has been a significant one for us as a Church for many, many years and we can be satisfied that this decision was reached after thorough and prayerful discussion. We recognise that for some in the church it will be a source of much pain and distress. I invite you all to hold those most affected by the decision in loving prayer. We belong together even as we know we do not always agree.

Meanwhile, we in Auckland are continuing on with the Assembly, knowing that what holds us together is greater than that which divides us. We are anticipating some excellent keynote addresses on the theme "Christ-centred, community-facing". We hope commissioners will return to their parishes inspired to engage with their communities in mission.

In the meantime, may the peace of Christ be with you all,

Yours in love
Pamela Tankersley