Parochial Church Councils (PCCs) from across the diocese have been asked by Diocesan Synod to reflect on the Church of England’s ‘Covenant for the Care and Wellbeing of Clergy’.
In October 2025, Diocesan Synod approved a motion encouraging all PCCs in the diocese to use provided resources to reflect on how clergy peoples’ wellbeing can be supported by congregations.
At that Synod the Revd Canon Rachel Firth, from Huddersfield Deanery, moved the motion, hearing from her and Vanessa, a lay member from Lindley, about their experience reflecting on the covenant, thinking through the issues it brought up and how the deanery’s churches have supported their clergy.
Lots of practical tips were shared about how a church can support their clergy person, to make sure their wellbeing is looked after, and there was a time of discussion around the motion.
After debating the motion, where conversations were had about building trust between clergy, PCCs and everyone, which is key to any process supporting wellbeing, the motion was approved.
PCCs are being encouraged to use the ‘Document for Reflection and Action for Local Congregations’ resource to consider the ‘Covenant for the Care and Wellbeing of Clergy’.
The document invites PCCs and wider congregations to consider their role in clergy well-being, and to act intentionally to play their part in care for the clergy.
The document can be found here.