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	Media release Thursday 20 July 2006 Bold Changes for Inner City Churches The members of Hobart's inner city Anglican churches last night heard of exciting changes proposed for their future. The churches involved included St David's Cathedral, St George's Battery Point, Holy Trinity North Hobart and BayWest (Sandy Bay/West Hobart). These changes include a proposed merger between Holy Trinity and BayWest (two of Hobart's strongest Anglican churches). There will also be a partnership arrangement between the Cathedral and St George's, as well as close cooperation with the newly merged parish. The changes will be worked through over the next 18 months, with the final merger taking place from the beginning of 2008. These changes are designed to position the Anglican Church for ministry and mission in the 21st Century. They are especially designed to promote increased outward-looking mission The Bishop of Tasmania, The Right Reverend John Harrower, expressed his enthusiasm and support for the changes. He said, 'I'm delighted to see Anglicans working hard to plan for a positive and strong future together.' Under the Anglican system, such changes need to be proposed and confirmed by local parishes. The changes will have significant effects on the church. Numbers in ministry positions will remain the same, although these new arrangements will allow staff to have greater specialisation in their ministries. Overall, there will be fewer services in total, but a greater diversity in the style of services offered. The Cathedral and St George's buildings will be unaffected. The proposed new parish (Holy Trinity and BayWest) will be investigating their options as far as building usage. They are looking to engage the services of Mr Paul Davies, an expert in heritage architecture, and will also be seeking advice from the relevant organisations and government bodies. The new parish would benefit from owning one building that has the capacity to meet 21st century needs and flexibility for ministry, especially to families and young people - this may be a redeveloped building or a new facility. Contact Dean of Hobart - Very Revd Dr Lindsay Stoddart 0422 588 298 Read previous media releases.