SAMS and CMS say joined-up working is the way forward

The South American Mission Society (SAMS) and the Church Mission Society (CMS) have announced today that they are in talks about the possibility of merging or collaborating more closely.

The two long-established Anglican mission societies are looking at an approach that would maintain the integrity and focus of SAMS, while bringing it into the global network operated by CMS.

Canon Patrick Coghlan, Chair of Trustees at SAMS, said: “Mission has a lot to gain from closer relationship between SAMS and CMS. The roots and vision of both Societies mirror each other. SAMS will gain from the experience and expertise available from a larger agency and wider global network. South Americans are already being called to mission in other continents where CMS has a presence.”

The Rt Rev David Urquhart, Chair of Trustees at CMS, agreed: “We are excited by the possibility of working more closely with SAMS. The two Societies have much in common, not least a similar theological stance. CMS has much to learn from the South American Church. We hope we can reach full agreement on the way forward in a few months’ time.”

Both parties expressed their intention of consulting widely before any agreement is finalised.

SAMS has also announced some management changes. A new post has been created – Executive Director – in order to progress the discussions and to provide leadership to the Society in the short to medium term. Bill Lattimer has been appointed to this post on an interim basis for a period of up to 12 months. The current General Secretary, Canon John Sutton, will become Mission Development Director, focussing particularly on relationships with partner dioceses and churches in Great Britain, South America and Iberia and on providing support to mission partners in the field.

Contacts for enquiries:
SAMS: Canon Barry Harper, Vice chairman of Trustees, 0121 351 3990, canonbarryharper@tiscali.co.uk

CMS: Jeremy Woodham, Communications Team, 01865 787451 (Office, direct line), 07941 622776 (Mobile), jeremy.woodham@cms-uk.org



Notes to Editors:

Any agreement would be between SAMS (Great Britain) and CMS (Britain). It has no direct impact on the independent sister societies of both agencies such as SAMS (Ireland) or CMS (Australia).

The annual income of SAMS (GB) and CMS (B) are about £1.5m and £7m respectively.

Bill Lattimer is a Reader in his local church in Rochester Diocese. He has recently been working as a volunteer at Christian Research carrying out both research and consultancy for Christian organisations. He was formerly a partner with the global management consultancy and IT services firm Accenture, where he undertook both consultancy and line management roles.

ENDS

Published: 16:31 15 October 2007  |  4169 views
Last updated: 15 October 2007
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