Synod Council

Introduction

Synod Council is the executive governing body of the Diocese of Niagara, meeting regularly throughout the year to provide continuity of leadership and oversight between annual Synod gatherings.

Composed of the Bishop, elected clergy and lay members, and key diocesan officers, Council serves as the primary decision-making authority for matters requiring action between Synod meetings. Council acts with the authority of Synod in implementing resolutions, overseeing diocesan operations, managing finances, and ensuring faithful stewardship of our shared ministry.

Authority & Mandate

Synod Council derives its authority from the diocesan Synod and operates under the provisions of the diocesan Constitution and Canons. Council acts on behalf of Synod between annual meetings while remaining accountable to the wider Synod body.

Meeting Frequency

Council meets approximately six times per year, typically on the third Saturday of the month. Special meetings may be called as needed to address urgent matters requiring Council attention and decision.

Synod Council

Purpose & Responsibilities

Synod Council fulfills a vital role in the governance structure of the diocese, ensuring continuity, accountability, and faithful stewardship of our shared ministry.

Governance

Exercise oversight of diocesan operations and ensure alignment with canonical requirements and Synod directives.

Collaboration

Work with diocesan staff, clergy, and parishes to support ministry initiatives and respond to emerging needs.

Accountability

Provide transparent reporting to Synod on financial, programmatic, and strategic matters affecting the diocese.

Discernment

Prayerfully consider decisions and seek God’s guidance in matters of diocesan importance and direction.

Synod Council

Core Responsibilities

  • Implement Synod Decisions

    Carry out resolutions and directives from the annual Synod gathering, ensuring that decisions are faithfully executed.

  • Financial Oversight

    Monitor diocesan finances, approve expenditures, and ensure good stewardship of resources throughout the year.

  • Strategic Planning

    Develop and oversee the implementation of the diocese's strategic vision and long-term planning initiatives.

  • Policy Development

    Create and review diocesan policies, ensuring compliance with canons and best practices in governance.

  • Ministry Support

    Provide guidance and support for diocesan ministries, programs, and initiatives throughout the year.

  • Prepare for Synod

    Organize materials, reports, and resolutions for the annual Synod gathering, ensuring smooth proceedings.

Synod Council

Standing Committees, Taskforces, and Working Groups

  • Finance & Investment Committee

  • Governance & Policy Review

  • Human Resources Committee

  • Property & Infrastructure Working Group

  • Strategic Planning Task Force

  • Ministry Development Working Group

Synod Council

Council Composition

Synod Council includes ex officio members (by virtue of their office) and elected members chosen by Synod, ensuring both continuity of leadership and representation of the wider diocese.

  • The Reverend Canon Malcolm French

    Regional Representative

  • Ms. Amy Collard

    Regional Representative

  • Mr. Byron Nicholson

    Regional Representative

  • Mr. Mark Young

    Regional Representative

  • Ms. Bev Groombridge

    Regional Representative

  • Mrs. Susan Little

    Regional Representative

  • The Reverend Victor Kischak

    Regional Representative

  • Mr. John Laidlaw

    Regional Representative

  • Canon Patricia Davis

    Regional Representative

  • The Reverend Canon Dr. Eleanor Clitheroe

    Financial Advisory Committee

  • Ms. Sharon White

    Canterbury Hills Board of Directors

  • The Reverend Rob Miller

    Episcopal Appointee

  • Ms. Paige Keller

    Episcopal Appointee

  • Ms. Gillian Hendry

    Episcopal Appointee

  • Ms. Nancy Coombs

    Episcopal Appointee

  • The Venerable Jeff Ward

    Regional Archdeacon

  • The Venerable Sheila Van Zandwyk

    Regional Archdeacon

  • The Venerable Terry DeForest

    Regional Archdeacon

  • The Venerable Paul Walker

    Regional Archdeacon

  • The Venerable Terry Holub

    Regional Archdeacon

  • The Venerable Bill Mous

    Officer & Director

  • Ms. Christine Morrow

    Officer & Director

  • The Very Reverend Dr. Tim Dobbin

    Officer & Director

  • Canon Greg Tweney

    Officer & Director

  • The Right Reverend Dr. Susan Bell

    Officer & Director (Chair)

Resources

Procedure for Electing Synod Council Regional Representatives

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