Diocesan Synod report October 2026

People from across the diocese gathered at the Gryphon School in Sherborne last weekend (Saturday 17 October) for Diocesan Synod.

In her Presidential Address, which opened the formal meeting following worship, Bishop Karen reflected on the challenges facing the diocese, while giving thanks for the prayers and support of the diocesan community. She outlined the work that has been ongoing to streamline diocesan structures and direct more resources towards local churches:

“My passion has always been in the local church. That is where the life is, and that is what continues to give us both meaning and joy. Christ dwells with us in every action of kindness, act of worship and word shared. Therefore, in the last six months, the Diocesan Board of Finance, the Bishop’s Council, through its committees and staff, have been working hard to make all we do more streamlined and explicit in its delivery to support you, where you are.”

In advance of the motion to approve the budget for 2027, Bishop Karen called for generous giving, partnership and renewed faith, with 2027 set to be a year of making an impact locally and inspiring faith and generosity.

She said: “This is not about us and them, or you and us; it is about all of us playing our part in Making Jesus Known. For your part, it is simply: please continue to give, generously and sacrificially. We cannot do what we would like to do without everyone playing their part and making a full contribution towards the shared ministry fund.”

Bishop Karen’s address was followed by people speaking both for and against the motion to approve the 2027 Budget, which was passed overwhelmingly by Synod. More information on the budget for 2027 is available on the website, DBF Budget – Diocese of Salisbury, along with an explainer and guidance relating to the Shared Ministry Fund (formerly Parish Share).

In the afternoon, Keli Bolton, Head of Growing Younger, was joined by SDBE colleagues Katie Fitzsimmons, Director of Education, and Esther Culy, Specialist Advisor for RE, who spoke of their collaboration and partnership in helping our diocese to grow younger, including raising young leaders, encouraging intergenerational worship and supporting and welcoming young people into churches. You can read and watch Bishop Karen’s full address.