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The Diocese of New Westminster stretches from the top of the Sunshine Coast through the Lower Mainland and out as far as Hope. Parish representatives [laity] of all 62 parishes and 4 worshipping communities of the Coast Salish First Nations, together with licensed clergy comprise Synod, the senior governance structure of this Anglican diocese. 

Synod is a ‘family’ gathering to learn, discuss and worship together, conduct an overview of both financial and ministry matters, hear reports, approve budgets and debate existing and arising issues. 

Synod opened with a land acknowledgement followed by a Eucharist. In his sermon, Archbishop John challenged everyone that in the changing and complicate world of our time we are called to be the church of 2025; how can we come to see we are being called to something new? We enjoyed rousing singing, reflective worship and sense of community that the church is larger than just our parish.  

As a first-time attendee, I found it very interesting to hear from other parishes about their outreach ministries and the various engagements in sustainable creation-centred work. It was good to be reminded that there are many vibrant ministries throughout the Diocese. 

Archbishop Andy John of Wales was the keynote speaker and described how the Anglican Church in Wales has had to change in many ways and yet, despite change being forced upon them, has found a vital and growing ministry. 

In working groups, we engaged in divergent thinking activities looking at different scenarios from places ranging from San Francisco, to the Kootenays and here in the lower mainland. 

We debated and voted on fourteen different resolutions.

One significant resolution changes the mandatory retirement age of clergy from 65 to 71 after which, at the discretion of the Bishop, clergy may be given one year renewal yearly up to the age of 76. Cathedral Trustee Shehnaz Hozimia Cavey seconded by Rev Helen Gunn presented a detailed motion For Peace, Justice and Reconciliation in the Holy Land. This motion received resounding approval. 

Christ Church Cathedral was represented by Dean Chris, Rev. Areeta, Rev. Christian, Rev. Kevin (Cathedral Clergy), Michael Law, Mark Halyk, Irene Pang, me (Cathedral Wardens), Douglas Yee and Shehnaz Hozimia Cavey (Cathedral Trustees).

Cathedral Members who have leadership positions in the Diocese are Kevin Smith, Vice Chancellor, Mark Halyk and Peter Roulston, elected to the Bishops Advisory Committee on Appointments, and Jane Hope, elected to the Court of the Diocese.