Church Returns: LEPs and Data Privacy

 Church Returns: LEPs and Data Privacy

Elders and Data Privacy Notice

For the first time the URC Annual Church Return requests personal details of Elders, and asks that these individuals are made aware of the Data Privacy Notice of the United Reformed Church.  This is particularly helpful for LEPs, where partner denominations might want the reassurance.  Access this CRCW Data Privacy Notice 

In the United Reformed Church, the eldership of a local congregation is a significant ministry – the Elders share responsibility, with the Minister of Word and Sacraments, for the spiritual oversight of the congregation. The Elders’ meeting is intended to be a distinctive and vital part of every URC congregation – with the Elders collectively possessing the abilities, skills and spiritual gifts of leadership. At its best, the Elders’ meeting is at the heart of every local congregation, providing impetus and positive influence on the mission, witness and service of the church. In short, Elders play an essential role in enabling the congregation to live fruitful lives as God’s people.

In 2016 the Past Case Review Learning Group report identified that we have a significant ministry of Elders but no Roll of Elders although we keep such a roll for all other authorised ministries within the life of the denomination. It is for this reason that this extra information is now being sought on the Annual Church Return. The reason we require this information can be found on our data privacy policy at: Access this CRCW Data Privacy Notice