wfn.org | ACNS3503 Church of England General Synod meets in York

["Anglican Communion News Service" <acnslist@anglicancommunion.org>]

ACNS 3503     |     ENGLAND	|     12 JUNE 2003 

Church of England General Synod meets in York

by Matthew Davies

The General Synod of the Church of England, meeting in York from 11-15
July, are mainly focusing on outward mission and social responsibility
this year. Other areas of emphasis and debate are ministry matters and
ecumenical affairs, the latter of which will aim to approve the
Anglican-Methodist Covenant and encourage the Church of England to
implement it. 

The principal debates at the July Synod include: 

- A children's' strategy for the Church 

- Racial justice

- Embryo research 

- Ethical investment 

- Church buildings strategy 

- Financial issues facing the Church 

- Ordination training 

- Clergy professional conduct 

- Anglican-Methodist Covenant 

- Legislative business 

- Choosing diocesan bishops 

During the opening session the synod almost unanimously supported a
motion to implement guidelines for the professional conduct of the
clergy. The Chairman of the working group, the Revd Canon Hugh Wilcox,
was concerned about the risks that clergy face throughout their
ministry. "Faced with a pastoral situation the minister has to take
immediate decisions about what to say or do," he said. "These [clergy
guidelines] are offered to support and develop the church's foundation."

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