The Possibilities of a Clergy Labour Union within the Covenantal Relationship of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa

Abstract

The aim of this article is to investigate the basis upon which a labour union for the clergy within the Methodist Church of Southern Africa (MCSA) could be beneficial for both the church and the clergy. Such a union would recognise the clergy as personnel, rather than representatives of the church. The covenantal relationship that exists between the church and clergy is based on the premise that clergy are called by God and are, therefore, not employees of the church. However, the relationship between church and clergy is often clouded by several factors that make the judiciary hesitant to get involved in church affairs. The aim of this article is to explore how best the relationship between the church and clergy can be improved for the benefit of both parties, and so engender an authentic witness of the social justice proclamation that has become synonymous with Methodism. The effect of her social justice proclamation means the church should view the establishment of a clergy labour union as a step towards a higher standard of clergy care.