Comments for GA BLOG: Committee Size Matters at http://www.pres-outlook.com , comment 1 to 2 out of 2 comments http://www.pres-outlook.com Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:36:45 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.3 http://www.pres-outlook.com/insights-opinions/blog/GA-BLOG-Committee-Size-Matters.html#comment-5522 I think that the real issue is the ridiculous amount of business commissioners are expected to handle--both in their committees and then in plenary. There are WAY too many things demanding attention for normal humans to attend to them. I wish we could think about ways to limit the amount of business coming before GA - Steve Aeschbacher Tue, 06 Jul 2010 18:30:29 +0100 http://www.pres-outlook.com/insights-opinions/blog/GA-BLOG-Committee-Size-Matters.html#comment-5516 I tend to agree with you. If the committees are to actually deliberate (rather than rubber stamp conclusions of sub-committees that met prior to the Assembly), even 30+ members is unwieldy. Our session is in the process of winnowing down from 34 lay members to 16 lay members (being accomplished by attrition of 3-year terms). I was initially not in favor of the reduction in numbers of members, feeling that it didn't allow a broad enough cross-section of the congregation to participate. I have since come to agreement with the process - and with you that smaller bodies are probably more able to focus and to actually conduct business. And to the question of a broader cross-section of views I say - the Holy Spirit can move a smaller committee just as well as a larger one - and if what we are about is doing the work of God - advised by the Holy Spirit - then what do numbers matter? - Abbie Watters Tue, 06 Jul 2010 13:54:31 +0100