Blessing of same-sex couples and ordination of people in committed LGBT relationships will tax the minds of General Synod/Te Hinota Whanui in Napier.

Running from 6 – 13 May, the two-yearly Synod is the highest decision-making body of the Anglican Church in these islands.

Motions and bills on the Synod agenda also cover:

● Social justice issues such as child poverty, the housing crisis and welcoming refugees

● Climate change – carbon offsetting and Pacific Island disaster preparedness

● Gender-based violence – advocacy, support and prevention, creating safe communities

● Promoting women’s leadership and participation in decision-making bodies

Church order, ecumenical relationships and liturgical matters also will be discussed, including inter-changeability of Methodist and Anglican clergy, changes to the practice of confirmation, and clerical vocations.

Synod papers can be viewed in the resources section of the Anglican website: http://www.anglican.org.nz/News/General-Synod-Te-Hinota-Whanui