Team Leeds played their part at General Synod in York recently, participating in debates and discussions as part of a packed agenda.
Diocesan representatives took part in proceedings which covered a huge range of topics.
Synod backed a regional trial to offer Church of England weddings free of statutory fees, following a debate brought by Blackburn Diocesan Synod.
Synod also approved the recommendations of the National Church Governance Project Board, which has been looking at reforming the governance of the Church of England.
Following a motion from the Diocese of Oxford, Synod called for renewed action from the Church and Government to tackle the impact and causes of climate change.
Synod also gave first consideration to the new Clergy Conduct Measure, which reforms the clergy complaints procedure from the Clergy Disciplinary Measure introduced in 2003.
Members of Synod also heard about recent national safeguarding matters, and had an update on the progress of the Living in Love and Faith process.
Three of our representatives have written reflections on the recent meeting.
Jane Evans said: “This was a difficult General Synod, with controversy around safeguarding and still many as yet unresolved concerns about the Living in Love and Faith work.
“However, these should not be allowed to overshadow the many good decisions that Synod made, such as continuing to prioritise environmental work, the desire to engage more young people in our decision-making processes, and discussion of the important role that faith and belief plays in the rehabilitation of offenders.”
Catherine Stephenson said: “I made my maiden speech in the debate about the contribution of faith to the rehabilitation of prisoners.
“I spoke about the marvellous and varied work done by our local Mothers' Union helping visitors, supporters and prisoners at New Hall Prison.
“I wanted to highlight a perhaps less known example of rural ministry and faith in action.”
Diana Tremayne said: “This Synod felt challenging in a variety of ways but perhaps particularly because of the very necessary focus on safeguarding.
“It was important that we were able to hear from a survivor and also the former members of the Independent Safeguarding Board on Sunday.
“Alongside this a lot of other business was conducted.
“Some was less high profile but I was pleased to speak to support the proposals to improve the system of elections for General Synod to help ensure that they are more standardised across dioceses and that information is clear and easy to access.
“Once again I was struck by how fortunate we are in Leeds to have a group of representatives who are active and engaged in different ways, from speaking, chairing and being on other committees of Synod.
“It’s been lovely to continue to get to know one another better – even if we weren’t quite able to retain our Synod quiz title this time!”