CofE general synod agenda
from Religion Media Centre:
Same sex blessings: Proposals to introduce standalone services with prayers of blessing for same sex couples, come before the Church of England’s parliament, the General Synod, in York next month. Papers published yesterday suggest a “delegated episcopal ministry” offering pastoral support to clergy from alternative bishops who agree with them on the issue. More work needs to be done on these proposals and whether clergy can be in same sex marriages. There will be a discussion in July and decisions in February 2025. The prayers are already in use in some churches within regular services, including at Canterbury Cathedral.
Safeguarding: A report into new structures to implement full independence of safeguarding operations and scrutiny in the Church of England, will be considered, with a promise that decisions will be made in February 2025. The changes follow recommendations by Prof Alexis Jay who conducted a review into the collapse of the Independent Safeguarding Board a year ago. Legislation for a redress scheme will also be discussed.
Soul Survivor: A call for a KC led inquiry into abuse by the Soul Survivor founder Canon Mike Pilavachi and allegations of a cover-up within the Soul Survivor network, is on the agenda of synod. In reply, the CofE secretary general says such an inquiry is no longer relevant as internal processes and disciplinary measures have been taken and there is already an independent review being undertaken by a lawyer engaged by the Watford Soul Survivor church.
Disabled children: Synod will also debate a motion from the Diocese of Liverpool on the human dignity of disabled children. It challenges the assumption that “bringing a disabled child into the world is a tragedy to be avoided” and calls for more support and advice for families during pregnancy and after birth.
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