History and Responsibilities
History of the Committee on Representation (COR)
The 1983 reunion of the Presbyterian Church resulted in the creation of committees on representation. The new denomination made a strong commitment to the principles of participation and inclusiveness to ensure effective representation in the decision making of the church on the part of persons of all backgrounds. Article 8 of the Articles of Agreement not only committed the new church to the principles of participation, inclusiveness, and fair representation in the decision making of the church, but also mandated the creation of committees of representation (CORs) at all governing bodies above the session.
Assigned Responsibilities of GACOR
The General Assembly Committee on Representation (GACOR), in its constitutional mandate, shall advise, advocate, resource, review, recommend, and consult with the General Assembly committees, councils, and ministries divisions to ensure that the principles of inclusiveness are implemented. Its main function shall be to advise the governing bodies with respect to their membership and to that of their committees, boards, agencies, and other units in implementing the principles of participation and inclusiveness to ensure fair and effective representation in the decision making of the church. The committee shall advise the General Assembly on the employment of personnel in conformity with the Churchwide Plan for Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity.
“The committee on representation shall serve both as an advocate for the representation of racial ethnic members, women, different age groups, and persons with disabilities, and as a continuing resource to the particular governing body in these areas. The committee on representation shall review the performance of its own governing body in these matters and shall report annually to it and to the next higher governing body with recommendations for any needed corrective action. The committee on representation shall consult with the nominating committee of its own governing body” (Book of Order, G-9.0105c).
Responsibilities of CORs
A committee on representation (COR) in a synod or presbytery can be an asset to these governing bodies in assisting them in the development of workshops around key issues raised in the church, such as racism training, unity and diversity conferences, and better understanding of the diverse cultures within the PC(USA).
- COR is encouraged to study/review the patterns of participation and inclusiveness on committees, boards, and agencies in synods and presbyteries. Wherever possible, COR should consult with racial ethnic groups, women’s groups, persons with disabilities, etc.
- COR is expected to consult with the nominating committee and assist them in securing names of persons willing to serve on synod/presbytery committees, boards, and agencies.
- COR is encouraged to be in contact with other committees of the synod/presbytery, i.e., evangelism, Christian education, etc., about ways in which persons can be recruited for training. COR members should participate as well.