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General Synod

Our representatives on the national assembly of the Church of England.

General Synod is the national assembly of the Church of England. Decisions that are taken at General Synod shape the life, worship, financial health, ministry, and mission of our church.

Representatives of the whole Church of England – dioceses, cathedrals, religious communities, universities, armed forces, bishops, clergy and lay people – usually meet three times a year to debate and decide the future direction of the church.

Decisions affect the life of every parish – for example, the ordination of women to the priesthood and as bishops; and the recent commitment for the church to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 in response to the Climate Emergency. You can watch previous General Synod meeting recordings.

House of Clergy (4 places)

  • The Revd Roger Driver
  • The Revd Liz Dudley
  • The Revd Jo Stobart
  • The Ven Dr Adrian Youings

House of Laity (5 places)

  • Christina Baron
  • James Cary
  • Emma Joy Gregory
  • Matt Orr
  • Nic Tall

In autumn 2026, elections for new General Synod members will be taking place. 

Here General Synod representative, Matt Orr shares his experience as a new member when attending his first General Synod. 

What actually happens at General Synod? | Feb 2022

Timetable of General Synod meetings

  • 16-18 November 2026 (London)

2027

  • 22-26 February (London)
  • 9-13 July (York)
  • 15-17 November if required (London)

2028

  • 14-22 February (London)
  • 7-11 July (York)
  • 20-22 November if required (London)

2029

  • 19-27 February (London)
  • 6-10 July (York)
  • 19-21 November if required (London)

Who to contact