Synod
Our governing structures for prayerful discernment and decision-making at the diocesan, provincial, and national levels of our Church
Diocesan Synod
Synod is the annual governing body of the Diocese of Niagara. It brings together clergy and elected lay representatives from every parish to worship together, learn, discuss important matters, and make decisions about our shared ministry.
Synod is both a spiritual gathering and a business meeting—a time to discern God’s call for our diocese and to ensure we are good stewards of the resources and responsibilities entrusted to us.
Purpose of Diocesan Synod
- To receive an address by the Bishop about the state of the diocese and where God is calling us to minister
- Worship and spiritual discernment together
- Prayer and Fellowship
- Election of Synod Council regional representatives and delegates to Provincial and General Synods
- Consider and vote on resolutions
- Receive reports from diocesan ministries and missions
- Approval of the audited financial statements and diocesan budget
Who Attends Synod?
- The Bishop of Niagara
- All licensed clergy in the diocese
- Representatives of the college of deacons
- Elected lay delegates from each parish
- Diocesan officers
- Episcopal Appointees & Members of Synod Council
- Observers and guests (non-voting)
General Synod
The General Synod of the Anglican Church of Canada (ACC) is the chief governing and legislative body of the ACC, the sole Canadian representative of the Anglican Communion. The first General Synod session was held in Toronto in 1893, with the proviso that the parameters of its authority would not undermine the local independence of dioceses.
The next General Synod will be hosted by the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador from May 8 to 14, 2028.
Elected Representatives to General Synod
Order of Laity
Rev. David Patterson
Committee Chair
Rev. David Patterson
Committee Chair
Order of Clergy
Rev. David Patterson
Committee Chair
Rev. David Patterson
Committee Chair
Order of Bishops
The Right Reverend Dr. Susan Bell
Bishop
Provincial Synod
The Diocese of Niagara is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario which is a grouping of dioceses into a common area. Ecclesiastical provinces meet in Provincial Synods every three years to transact business of common interest. The bishop responsible for an ecclesiastical province is called the Metropolitan Archbishop. The Metropolitan, currently The Most Reverend Anne Germond, is elected by the Provincial Synod which is composed of bishops, clergy and lay delegates. Members are elected at Diocesan Synod from both clergy and laity from the dioceses of Algoma, Huron, Moosonee, Niagara, Ontario, Ottawa and Toronto.
In between the meeting of Provincial Synod a council of representatives meets twice a year.
Elected Representatives to Provincial Synod
Order of Laity
Rev. David Patterson
Committee Chair
Rev. David Patterson
Committee Chair
Order of Clergy
Rev. David Patterson
Committee Chair
Rev. David Patterson
Committee Chair
Ex Officio members
Rev. David Patterson
Committee Chair
Synod Resources & Policies
2025 Annual Report
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Volunteer Handbook
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Resources Guide
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Monthly Newsletter
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