Back to Synod - February 2024

Today my Churchwarden observed that Synod has come around again in the blink of an eye - and indeed it has. Not aided by the extra and unusual November session of course. I'm not sure what I thought it would be like, serving on Synod, when I stood for election. Perhaps just that it would, like most ministry, be rather hard work, while the world makes a gag about you working one day a week..... again..... There's some important stuff on the agenda for these sessions and being nominated to write the report for Diocesan Synod guarantees high concentration levels (which usually just rely on a sense of duty and a twinge of guilt). There are three items that relate to bad behaviour which I think will bring out some horror stories and I hope some much needed debate. We're going to be talking about bullying by lay officers, a code of conduct for PCCs, and a code of conduct for members of General Synod.  It's a shame that such discussions are needed, that there is no consensus on what civility, mutual respect and respectful debate look like in our parishes and synods. It has often been said though that while people point out the brokenness of the church, we actually reflect the brokenness of the world we serve. Perhaps we can take steps towards a more civil church, a more loving church, and reflect some hope back into a world where civility is often lacking too.  Synod can be listened to or watched live via the C of E website. I don't live tweet as much as I used to - but will try and reflect here regularly.