Inspiring 18-25s to stand for election to General Synod
The Church is at a crucial moment in our life in so many ways: there is, despite the debate over figures, an undoubted generational shift in attitudes towards the Bible and the church and locally, we are in the early stages of realising our vision: Seeking the Kingdom. We are at a moment of so much challenge and opportunity. We need to grow our church, our ministry and our financial resources to fulfil our vision.
We need all hands on deck!
A key part of our vision is to grow a younger church and to see younger people taking responsibility for our governance.. It is obvious that young people should be encouraged to take an active role in every part of our church life. There are so many issues of crucial importance for our life, witness and worship that need fresh and new perspectives, rooted as always in the life of the church, our Christian beliefs and faith revealed in scripture and our worship together week by week.
As well as encouraging participation in parishes, in ministry and in chaplaincies, our church is governed by elected Synods. The General Synod is our elected national assembly, essential for shaping its direction and governance. Elections occur every five years, with the next elections between August and October this year.
Would you consider standing for election to General Synod?
General Synod considers and approves legislation for the entire Church of England, develops new forms of worship, discusses important national and international issues, and sets the annual budget for national activities. It has legislative authority – it is one of the few bodies in England authorised to make national laws through Measures that are approved by Parliament and the Monarch.
Candidates for the Synod are driven by their commitment to mission, governance, and pastoral care, aiming to influence policies on key theological and social matters, including social justice and environmental issues.
Drawn from among people across our worshipping communities and voted for by members local Deanery Synods, being a General Synod member means being ready to speak in debates, with clear sight about their views and the views we represent. This calls for determination, strong communication and negotiation skills and strength of character and conviction.
To be elected, candidates will need to plan, network and build support. Involvement in parish, deanery and diocesan activities helps establish a reputation that can lead to endorsements and votes.
Candidates should create a clear manifesto and set out their stall to resonate with potential electors, engage with voters, and build trust.
Synod is not all work. Among the 450 members lasting friendships develop, bringing sharing and support for each other’s ministry.
Are you called to serve on General Synod? Are you ready for the challenge? Do you know someone who could represent our diocese? Ultimately, standing for General Synod is a call to serve the Church in shaping its mission and governance for today's world.
Tug Wilson has represented the Lichfield diocese at General Synod for twenty-one years and is active both locally and nationally in supporting the Church’s mission and ministry.
Photo: Geoff Crawford / Church of England
Key dates for the 2026 General Synod election:
| 14 July | current General Synod dissolves; |
| 14 August | nominations for New Synod open; |
| 7 Septembe | nominations close; |
| 21 September | voting opens |
| 13 October | voting deadline |
| 14-16 October | voting count |
| 16-18 November | new General Synod meets |