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On Saturday, 7th June, Diocesan Synod met at St John's House to discuss the diocese’s strategy, vocations, safeguarding, and to adopt the annual report and accounts for 2024. The opening worship was led by the Revd Janie Cronin from Nelson Street, one of our new resource churches in Rochdale.
Opening Address
In his opening address, Bishop David reflected on all that continues to be achieved across our diocese because of the huge passion and commitment to the gospel demonstrated by the lay people and clergy in our parishes, chaplaincies and schools. He talked about the opportunities for our diocese as we develop our strategy and prepare to make an ambitious bid to the National Church Institutions for a major investment in our diocese over the next few years. Bishop David also welcomed the increase in clergy pensions which has recently been announced and the anticipated increase in clergy stipends, which it is hoped will have a positive impact on clergy wellbeing, as will the increased investment in our parsonages You can read Bishop David’s address here.
The Diocese’s Emerging Strategy
Helen Platts, COO/Diocesan Secretary, gave an update on the diocese’s strategy – based on the four themes of Growing Younger, Church Planting & Revitalisation, Developing Missional Leaders and Parish Renewal – and the emerging plans in each of these areas that will form the basis of a bid to the national church later in the year. This is the opportunity for us to be bold and creative as a diocese and make the fundamental changes necessary to ensure we achieve our vision of being a worshipping, growing, transforming Christian presence at the heart of every community. Synod members engaged in lively discussions about each of the four priorities in break-out groups led by members of the Bishop’s Leadership Team. This feedback will be important in helping shape our future plans as these are developed over the summer.
Annual Report and Financial Statements 2024
Synod were updated on the financial results for 2024, which showed an underlying operating deficit of £1.3m. Work has been underway with parishes to increase the amount of Parish Share paid and this is bearing fruit, although the diocese still has some way to go before returning to the break-even position. The annual report and financial statements were adopted by Synod and will be shared here.
Vocations
Our new Director of Vocations, the Revd Canon Rachel Watts, shared her vision for vocations. She spoke about the importance of everyone, lay and clergy alike, being open to the skills and talents of those around them and encouraging them in their ministries and vocations, whatever form that might take, to enable us to build on our strong track record in this area.
Safeguarding
Abbey Clephane-Wilson, Diocesan Safeguarding Officer, updated Synod on the key safeguarding responsibilities of parishes which was well-received. She is planning to visit all deanery synods over the coming months to provide a similar update.
Date of next meeting
The next Synod Meeting will take place on Saturday 11th October 2025.