The whole geographical spread of the Northern Diocese – from the Isle of Man in the west, to Sheffield and York in the east, and St Andrew’s to the north – was represented at the Diocesan Synod held at Holy Trinity, Oswaldtwistle on 22nd March.
After opening worship led by the Synod Chaplain, the Revd Anthony Ford, a roll call was taken and new members were welcomed. A period of silence, followed by prayer, was held in memory of Mr George Newsham, a former Churchwarden of Emmanuel, Morecambe, who had died recently, and other former members of Synod.
Following the approval of the Minutes, the General Secretary (who was in attendance) explained arrangements for the forthcoming Convocation and gave a summary of recent business at General Council, Central Trust and the Committees. Bishop John explained the background to the Agenda for Renewal process and encouraged as many people as possible to attend the consultation planned during Convocation.
The Diocesan Church Planter, the Revd Matthew Firth, gave an extensive report of blessings to date and plans for the future.
The Diocesan Treasurer, the Revd Werner Alberts, explained the accounts for year ended 31st December 2024 which were approved by Synod. Synod also approved a Trustees Annual Report for 2023 (to fulfil Charity Commission requirements) and set the quotas for the current year.
The current Diocesan Secretary and Treasurer were reappointed for a further year. Clergy and lay nominations to General Council were made.
After a break for lunch, Synod proceeded to the election of an Assistant Bishop for the Northern Diocese, as authorised by the General Council. In his report, Bishop John explained why it was believed that this was the right time to make such an appointment. Lay tellers were appointed, and the election was overseen by the General Secretary. The initial ballot produced four names; two of those stated that they did not wish to stand as they could not give the time that they believed would be required. The remaining two names were then voted on and that of the Revd Matthew Firth received the necessary votes in both houses. His name was then put to the whole Synod and received the necessary percentage of votes. Matthew’s election now needs to be confirmed at Convocation.
Bishop John prayed for Matthew and the Chaplain closed what had been a harmonious and productive Synod in prayer.