Dear Members,

It is an exciting time of change which brings the opportunity to reflect on Anthroposophy in the world and the role and purpose of the Anthroposophical Society.  The Executive Council in Dornach and the Leadership team have been engaging in similar processes, reflecting on the impulse brought by Rudolf Steiner at the Christmas Conference and the re-founding of the Anthroposophical Society.  In revisiting what Rudolf Steiner was addressing at that time, we can ask ourselves: From the many fruits of anthroposophy that developed in the world can we look and see what are the needs arising now? How can anthroposophy meet the challenges we face today?

In the light of these questions, we in New Zealand, can take stock and revision of the work that has been achieved from the development of anthroposophy in New Zealand through the dedication and commitment of past volunteers and General Secretaries.  Do the forms and roles that are currently in place meet the needs of the members of the society today? And, more importantly, is the society relevant and inspiring for the youth of today and for those active in all the movements and initiatives that are inspired and work out of anthroposophy.

With this in mind the council encourages members in the regions to engage with these questions and to actively think about who might be the person to administer the affairs of the Society into the future and the development of anthroposophy in New Zealand and in the world. 

Below we have copied the stipulations and nomination process that was sent to members in a letter on 3rd October 2019:

There are few stipulations in the statues of the GAS for the position of general secretary. These are:

  1. A person will need to be a member of the First Class of the School of Spiritual Science
  2. A person will need to be a member of the Anthroposophical Society in NZ
  3. Affirmation by the Goetheanum executive is required

The process and criteria leading towards the selection of a new General Secretary is as follows:

  1. Nominations must be put forward by at least two members with the approval of the nominee.
  2. The nominee will need to enclose a short biography outlining how they see their strengths in and vision for the role. The closing date for nominations is 31st January 2020.
  3. In February 2020, the council will consider nominations and set up a selection group inclusive of non-council members with diverse skills and from different regions.
  4. The selection group will carry out the interviews March/April 2020 and confirm the intention to offer the position to the successful candidate.
  5. The selection group’s decision will be forwarded to the Goetheanum for affirmation of the executive.
  6. Once affirmed by the Goetheanum, the decision will be sent to members along with the agenda for the AGM.
  7. Members will be invited to confirm the General Secretary’s appointment at the AGM of the Anthroposophical Society in New Zealand

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Trisha Glover

Chairperson