Last updated 19th February 2019

General Synod

The General Synod considers and approves legislation affecting the whole of the Church of England, formulates new forms of worship, debates matters of national and international importance, and approves the annual budget for the work of the Church at national level. 

The General Synod comprises the Convocations of Canterbury and York, joined together in a House of Bishops and a House of Clergy, to which is added a House of Laity.

It meets in February in London and in July in York, and occasionally in November in London. 

Key links:

• General Synod Agendas and papers 
• Latest news from General Synod will be posted here
• General Synod live streaming of proceedings (when in session) 
• General Synod Twitter account
• Download the General Synod app

Blackburn Diocese representatives at General Synod (2015-2020)

As well as the Bishop of Blackburn (ex-officio member) the following are elected members of General Synod:

Clergy

• The Revd Paul Benfield                     Burnley St Andrew with St Margaret and Burnley St                                                                        James and Burnley St Mark
• The Ven Michael Everitt                    Archdeacon of Lancaster
• The Revd Canon Fleur Green           Darwen St Peter
• The Revd Canon Alistair McHaffie    Preston The Risen Lord
• The Revd Chris Newlands                 Lancaster Priory

Laity

• Mr Stephen Boyall                              Preston All Saints
• Mrs Vivienne Goddard                       Tarleton Holy Trinity
• Mrs Carolyn Johnson                         Bilsborrow St Hilda
• Mrs Rosemary Lyon                            Appley Bridge All Saints
• Ms Jacqueline Stamper                      Lancaster Christ Church
• Mrs Susan Witts                                   Lower Darwen St James

Elections

Elections to General Synod happen every five years. The next election process commences in spring 2020.