Resolve offers training courses such as the Peacemaker Seminar, a mediator training course and a conflict coaching course.

Ever since it was founded, Resolve has struggled to develop a sustainable administration and financial base. However, its members have supported a move for New Zealand Christian Network (visionnetwork) to take over the administration, with a new board comprising Dr Bruce Patrick (Chairman), Denis Smith (Treasurer), Martien Kelderman and Glyn Carpenter (National Director, NZ Christian Network).

The two organisations have worked closely together since the formation of Resolve.

"It's important that we secure Resolve's future to provide a strong ministry to deal with the unfortunate amount of conflict that is sadly too often a part of the church community," said Mr Carpenter.

"It is inevitable that Christians will have different views on issues, after all the Christian community welcomes all comers and is not exclusive. We should not be surprised that differences occur as people bring their differing personalities and different worldviews and enter into a community based on relationship.

"In the light of such a reality we just need robust processes for reconciling differences and treasuring each others ‘otherness'. We are conscious that disputes which break out into the public arena (through court or media) are a poor witness to a watching world, not to mention expensive.

"God's Word has much to say about this issue, and Resolve has done an excellent job teaching this through its courses, training mediators, and mediating when needed.

"Our purpose of ‘calling people to the table' is also an essential part of resolving conflicts. NZ Christian Network will be actively encouraging churches that do not have a satisfactory resolution procedure to include Resolve in their agreements and constitutions.

"Even where good procedure exists, it may still be appropriate to have an independent external Christian agency such as Resolve involved.

"We certainly expect Resolve to have a much more visible and greater impact in the community following these changes," Mr Carpenter said.

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