Deanery Synod elections are an opportunity for people to represent their parish, share its voice more widely, and play a part in shaping the life and mission of the Church across the deanery and the Diocese.
What is Deanery Synod?
Deanery Synod is a formal part of the Church of England’s synodical structure. It sits between parishes and the Diocese, helping information, questions and decisions flow both ways.
Put simply, Deanery Synod exists to:
- consider business from Diocesan Synod and General Synod
- share and gather the views of parishes across the deanery
- ensure parishes are kept informed about wider diocesan matters
- pass local concerns and perspectives up to the Diocese
It also provides a regular meeting space where parishes within a deanery can listen to one another and reflect together on shared challenges and opportunities.
Who is on Deanery Synod?
Each Deanery Synod is made up of two Houses:
- The House of Clergy, including licensed clergy and others eligible under the Synodical Government Measure
- The House of Laity, including lay (non-clergy) representatives elected by parishes
Most lay members are elected by their parish at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM). The number of representatives each parish can elect depends on the size of its electoral roll.
Lay members of Diocesan Synod and General Synod who live within the deanery are also members of Deanery Synod.
What does the role involve?
Lay members are asked to:
- attend up to three Deanery Synod meetings each year, usually lasting 1.5–2 hours
- serve as a link between Deanery Synod and their Parochial Church Council (PCC)
- report back to their PCC on Synod discussions and decisions
- raise matters from their parish with Deanery Synod when appropriate
Find out more
Please contact:
miriam.longfoot@salisbury.anglican.org Miriam Longfoot
Governance and Pastoral Planning Manager
Further information about APCMs and nomination forms is available via the Parish Resources website.