14/07/2025
Synod opened on Monday with worship. Members then approved dates for the General Synod for the period 2027 to 2029.
Following a session that started and ended in silent reflection and prayer, members voted overwhelmingly to give final approval to a comprehensive Redress scheme for survivors of Church-related abuse. Read more: General Synod approves redress scheme for survivors of Church-related abuse
The vote was: Bishops: 26 in favour, no votes against or abstentions; Clergy: 129 in favour, 1 against and 1 abstention; Laity: 140 in favour, none against and 4 abstentions.
The vote came after the Synod debated and gave approval to the final drafting stages of the legislation.
The General Synod later gave overwhelming backing to a set of rules that will complement the legislation, incorporating an amendment brought by the Bishop of Birkenhead.
Members heard a presentation on the 40th anniversary of the Faith in the City report, given by Rt Rev Rob Wickham, Chief Executive at Church Urban Fund (CUF). A debate on the anniversary has been rescheduled for February.
Synod also voted to approve the Archbishops’ Council annual budget, following a debate led by Carl Hughes, Chair of the Archbishops’ Council Finance Committee.
The Synod voted on a series of amendments to Church rules on elections to the Houses of Bishops, Clergy and Laity before adjourning for the evening.
The day closed with evening worship.