CAPTION: Anne Foreman speaking during an online General Synod debate
Stand For General Synod to Make A Difference on Climate Change, Social Justice, Marriage and More
Anne Foreman worships at Exeter Cathedral and St Michael’s church, Heavitree. She has represented Devon on the Church of England General Synod since 2015 and previously sat on it for Guildford Diocese.
This autumn there is an election for new members. The closing date for nominations is Wednesday 8 September. Anne is standing down.
Here she explains why she wants as many people as possible to consider standing for this important role:
“The purpose of Synod is to understand God’s will for the church and to engage representatives of all God’s people in the task.”
Elections for a new General Synod take place soon – will you Stand? Could you play a part in shaping the future of the Church of England? If so, why not grasp the opportunity and face the challenge of standing for election?
General Synod evolved in 1969 from what was the Church Assembly and its primary function is as a legislative body. But don’t let that put you off because the purpose of Synod is to understand God’s will for the church and to engage representatives of all God’s people in the task. Legislation is one way that change happens.
Of course, the world is a very different place since Synod started. We have moved from being a society where Christianity was the culture, to where Christianity is choice.
What hasn’t changed though is that as disciples of Jesus Christ we are called to witness not only amongst fellow Christians, or those on the margins of church life, but to a society where the name of Jesus is largely unknown and unspoken.
Anne Foreman says she has had “the best time” serving on General Synod
And we are called to witness, so that the Good News of the saving and transforming love of God is shared.
As the established church, we do still have influence and need to use it to stand alongside the vulnerable and demonstrate Gospel values.
As someone who has served on General Synod for two different Dioceses I’ve had the best time!
I’ve met loads of amazing people, worked hard, read loads, laughed lots, learned to speak in debates, been invited to contribute to worship and there is always someone to help and encourage if synodical government is new to you!
Look on the diocesan website for practical information about standing and if you are part of a Bishop’s Mission Order then check with your Minister or Leader. You can be a new Christian or a lifelong one – what Synod needs is people who are curious, interested and up for a challenge.
So if you are interested in what’s facing the church – Climate Change, Social Justice, Education, attitudes to LGBTQI+ issues, and enjoy a challenge, then think about it…who should stand for election? Why not you?
You can download a nomination form here
If you would like to talk to Anne Foreman about what it is like being elected to General Synod please email her.
