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Members of Diocesan Synod were joined by parish treasurers from across the Diocese on Wednesday 8 July for a meeting focused on parish share. The gathering took place at Bishop Stopford School, Kettering.
Following an opportunity for fellowship over coffee, the meeting began with worship led on behalf of Daventry Deanery by the Revd Stephen Burrow.
In her Presidential Address, Bishop Debbie, reflected on the importance of ministry among children and young people during Recognise Week, a national initiative celebrating and giving thanks for those involved in this vital area of church life which is a key component of the emerging Diocesan Strategy.
Lay Chair Chris Banks welcomed parish treasurers and provided an update on the Diocese's Governance Review. He explained that work continues to align the Diocese's governance bodies and develop an effective subcommittee structure. The aim, he said, is to improve decision-making through greater clarity about the responsibilities of directors, trustees and committees. He also expressed gratitude for the contribution of lay volunteers and noted that part of the review's work will involve equipping volunteers with the skills needed to scrutinise, challenge and support the work of the Diocese effectively.
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Diocesan Secretary Russ Beese introduced discussions on the Parish Share Review. Reflecting on his own experience of leading a church that had grown in both financial stability and ministry through a focus on prayer and generosity; he emphasised that generosity extends beyond financial giving to encompass relationships, actions and a generous spirit. He shared a vision of the Diocese becoming known as a community marked by abundant generosity.
Acknowledging the challenges and financial pressures facing parishes, Russ noted that reductions in parish share contributions over the past decade have resulted in around £1 million less funding each year to support, resource and equip parishes in their mission and ministry.
Finance Director David Mason then outlined the proposed financial model arising from the review. Using examples of parishes in different contexts, he illustrated how the proposed changes might affect current parish share requests. This was followed by discussion around tables, giving parish treasurers and Synod members an opportunity to explore the proposals and raise questions.
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Later in the meeting, Russ provided an update on the forthcoming General Synod elections. Chris Banks also reminded parishes of the importance of having representation on Deanery Synod, noting that without a representative, a parish is unable to participate fully in the wider structures of Church governance and decision-making.
Synod members approved both the minutes of the March meeting and the Diocese's revised Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) constitution.
The next meeting of Diocesan Synod will take place on Saturday 10 October at 10am at a new venue, Christ the King, Kettering.
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| Revd Allison Twigg, Chair of the House of Clergy | Chris Banks, Chair of the House of Laity |