Representative Body

LAST year was described as a significant year for the Church in Wales by Professor Medwin Hughes, who chairs the Representative Body; he referred to its decision to invest in the future and take bold decisions.

In the Representative Body’s report, which was approved by the Governing Body, he said: “We saw some very difficult areas in financial markets around the world, which has significance on the stewarding of our assets.” The 14-per-cent decline in those calling themselves Christian in Wales had also had some bearing.

The poor total returns on investment, coupled with a decline in attendance, had meant a reduction of £1 million. “Over 95 per cent of our income — normally around £20 million — is generated through investments, and losses in this volatile period made it difficult to plan,” he said. “The Representative Body is not a planning agent. We are there to serve and listen and ensure sufficient funds to take forward exciting plans.”

Professor Hughes apologised for the time that it was taking for the long-awaited clergy-remuneration review, but emphasised the importance of taking the appropriate time. “The legal implications of getting it wrong would be terrible. The Measure has the simple aim of looking after the clergy,” he said.