Diocesan Synod

The governing body of the Church of England in Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes

Alongside the bishops, Diocesan Synod's membership is drawn from parishioners and clergy.

The bishop has a duty to consult the Diocesan Synod on matters of general importance and concern to the diocese and, in turn, Diocesan Synod provides a connection to Deanery Synods and PCCs.

Members of Diocesan Synod gather three times a year – usually on a Saturday – to discuss issues facing the Church and to share experience from right across the diocese. Members can also put themselves forward for boards and committees, such as the Bishop’s Council. Members of Diocesan Synod are also ex-officio members of their Deanery Synod and PCC for the period of their term on Diocesan Synod.

During the pandemic members of the Diocesan Synod met on Zoom and this model of meeting will be retained for some future meetings. Scroll down to view a recording of the most recent meeting or read a summary.

Information for Diocesan Synod members

Papers for forthcoming and past meetings of Diocesan Synod can be found on the document store.

The induction for new triennium 2021 – 2024 took place at St Aldate’s Church Oxford in September and was followed by a Eucharist welcome service at the Cathedral. The induction meeting was an opportunity for members to speak to diocesan staff and chairs of some Boards and Councils and seek nomination for elections to them.

Dates for future Diocesan Synod meetings:

Usual Synod meetings will take place on:

• Saturday 12 March 2022
• Saturday 11 June 2022
• Saturday 12 November 2022