General Synod plays a vital role in the life and governance of the Church of England, helping to shape decisions on mission, ministry and the future direction of the Church.

On this page you can find details of the candidates standing for election, together with links to their election addresses. Candidates are listed according to the House for which they are standing.

The election addresses have been provided by the candidates and are published here as part of the election process.

Click the candidate’s name to view and download their election address.

House of Laity

House of Clergy

Questions

Questions submitted to all candidates from both lay and clerical electors for the General Synod Elections 2026:

Question 1

a) Please could you describe your views in relation to the use of the Prayers of Love and Faith liturgy for blessing couples in a same-sex relationship and whether, if elected to Synod, you would support or not the marriage of clergy in same-sex relationships. It would be helpful if you could outline the reasons for whatever position you take on these issues.

b) I would like to know if you support women exercising ministry in the Church, whether as clergy, bishops, etc., and whether women clergy are accepted within the church in which you worship.

c) Please could you explain your views on the climate crisis and the diocesan commitment to reach Net Zero by 2030. How does your faith support the views you hold about this?

Question 2

Do you support and rejoice in the ministry of women in all roles in the Church, including ordination as priests, consecration as bishops, and ministry as diocesan bishops and Archbishop?

Question 3

What is your response to the appearance of those who claim to be both Christian and Nationalist? Is it the Christian vocation to seek the conversion of Jews and Moslems?

Question 4

(Addressed specifically to candidates standing for election to the House of Laity.)

Do you support the use of Prayers of Love and Faith liturgy for the blessing of people in a same-sex relationship?

Responses to questions