This Synod was the first to be delivered by Zoom. Following detailed instructions and pre-registration we were please that 111 people attended the Synod and took part in a lively debate on 'Discerning our future'. Bishop Mike Mike led Synod in prayer and Bishop Martin was spotlighted for his presidential address: "This has been a time of global convulsion. As others have said, we are facing not one but three pandemics: the coronavirus, environmental destruction, and racism. This is a time of upheaval, and however much we may look back longingly wanting things to return to how they were, the world is never going to be the same again, and nor will we". The full address is available to download here: Presidential Address | PDF Presidential Address | YouTube Bishop Martin expressed his desire for a sharpened and accelerated focus on “deepening faith and deepening service” and the development of a strong and sustainable lay and ordained ministry to “serve the communities of our county”. Bishop Martin also spoke of a three-pronged approach to address the projected £2m deficit caused by the coronavirus pandemic:
Bishop Martin ended his address by leading Synod in a prayer for generosity:
The Synod subsequently broke into 12 small Zoom break-out rooms to discuss key topics relevant to today's climate. Discerning our futureThe topics discussed were:
The results of these discussions were debated following the refreshment break, hosted by Revd Sharon Potter, Clergy Chair of the Synod. The key points raised from these discussions are included below: Discerning our future | PDF The financial matters were introduced by Mark Pendlington, Chair of the Diocesan Board of Finance (DBF). Following a presentation outlining and explaining the figures by Gary Peverley, Finance Director for the DBF, the 2021 budget and Parish Share request were approved by the Synod members, and the financial statements for the last financial year received. Gavin Stone, Diocesan Director of Strategy and Communications provided three notices:
Bishop Martin closed the Synod with the blessing.
Diocesan Synod Minutes | PDF
Page updated 20 October 2020 |