Diocese of Chichester

The Synod was marked by thoughtful debate, unity in prayer, and a shared commitment to justice, peace, and renewal.

Bishop Ruth’s presidential address set a hopeful tone, reminding all that, while not every parish rises at the same time, the tide of faith and engagement is lifting across our Diocese.

In her moving presidential address, Bishop Ruth spoke powerfully about the challenges facing today’s young adults-climate crisis, war, rapid technological change, and social pressures-yet offered hope, in particular, noting a quiet revival among young people turning to Christ. She encouraged synod to celebrate the Diocese’s rising confirmation numbers and urged all parishes to remain prayerful, ready, and expectant, building on the present to shape the Church’s future. (presidential address)

Key actions recorded as follows:

Finance and Administration

• 2024 Accounts:The Annual Accounts and Report of the Diocesan Board of Finance were presented by Bill Telford and unanimously received.

• Auditors:HaysMac LLP were re-appointed as auditors for the coming year.

Key Motions and Updates

• National Church Funding:John Preston updated Synod on diocesan applications for national funding.

• Clergy Pensions:Revd James Hollingsworth introduced a motion calling for the reversal of 2011 changes to clergy pensions, seeking a return to two-thirds stipend after 37 years’ service. The motion was unanimously carried, reflecting strong support for clergy welfare and justice in retirement.

• Eastbourne Deanery Motion – Middle East:Following an impassioneddebate, Synod amended and passed a motion noting the different values and aims of Israel on the one side and Hamas and the Palestinian Authority on the other, and calling for churches and peoples of every land to unite against all forms of evil and seek peace in the Middle East..

• Safeguarding Dashboard:Charlie Parker introduced the new Parish Dashboard which was replacing SQP. Two parish users who had trialled the system praised its simplicity and effectiveness.

Reports and Questions

• Bishop’s Council & General Synod Reports:Both reports were received by Synod.

• Questions:No questions were submitted under Standing Order 69.

For further details, Synod members are encouraged to contact Anne-Marie Mizlerin the Diocesan Office