Problems in the Diocese over the past several years culminated in the adoption of Resolution R-5 at the 2005 Annual Council in February. The resolution called upon Bishop Bane to request that the Presiding Bishop appoint three Bishops to come into the Diocese to evaluate programs and relationships and recommend steps to move the ministry of the Diocese forward.

One bishop said this weekend that the plan was broadly welcomed by his colleagues although there was some concern that parish priests may be resentful of the new ministers impinging on their territory. "This is something the existing parish clergy ought to be able to do," said the bishop.

The plan calls for a pilot group of 20 pioneer ministers, but one senior source said hundreds may be deployed across the country within a few years.

You showed many of us the way to Our Lord, and guided others to continue on the right path. You took the initiative in encouraging home Bible studies, and we saw many newcomers attracted to St. John's as they became aware of our attempts to grow a biblically-based church.

Under your tutelage, St. John's worked to grow our mission and ministry. Our membership and outreach increased. You led us in the building of a new and beautiful worship space.

It says: "What a tragedy that we are surrounded daily with television programmes, art, film and even real-life stories sold to magazines and newspapers that champion casual sex and pornography, yet as Christians we often have so little to say about it."