Special Synod Preparation Seminar #1

Every one is invited but Synod and Alternate Delegates are especially encouraged to attend one of the regional seminars on the proposed changes to Canon 2 (Vacancy in the Office of Diocesan Bishop) & Canon 3 (Coadjutor or Suffragan Bishop).

The first seminar took place in the Conference Room at the Synod Office of the Diocese of New Westminster from 10am – 11:20am, Saturday, September 8. The Reverend Dr. Richard Leggett facilitated the information and dialogue session. Canon 2 Task Force member, the Reverend Stephanie Shepard was also present as were Diocesan Council members Jane Hope and Sharon Grove (Canons and Constitutions Committee). Hope staffed the flipchart and recorded the suggestions from the group of approximately 50 clergy and lay who attended the seminar.

Dr. Leggett later remarked that the questions and suggestions received were excellent and will serve to add additional clarity and substance to the changes to the two Canons. He was also very pleased with the substantial turnout, indicating that diocesan members are engaged and very interested in the subject matter contained in these two Canons. The Special Synod will convene at St. John’s, Shaughnessy, Saturday October 13.

The Diocesan Council team also presented a seminar at St. Christopher, West Vancouver later that day at 1pm and Saturday, September 15 will see two more seminars; St. Matthew, Abbotsford at 10am and St Cuthbert, Delta at 1pm.

Primary changes to the Canons include the development of an Episcopal Election Committee to oversee the election process, and a number of small changes to clarify procedures and aid an Electoral Synod in discernment. The complete texts of the proposed documents are available below in .PDF format.