Welcome for brand spanking new Archbishop of Canterbury
THE Archbishop of York invited the General Synod to welcome the newly elected Archbishop of Canterbury initially of the sessions. A “chief nurse” would make a wonderful “chief shepherd”, he said. Members responded with a protracted standing ovation. Addressing Archbishop Mullally directly, he said: “For the Church of England, our beautiful and diverse Anglican Communion, and all our ecumenical colleagues, please be assured of our love and our prayers for you during your time in office.”
Revised dates approved for February 2027
THE Synod approved the revised dates of Monday 22 to Friday 26 February for the primary group of sessions in 2027. Feedback had shown that the dates announced last July clashed with the colleges’ half-term week. Speaking on behalf of the Business Committee, Canon Paul Cartwright (Leeds) said: “We have listened to your voice. The Revd Mike Tufnell (Salisbury) commended the choice: “If we would like to be a growing, younger, more diverse Church, we should be mindful of the practicalities. Scheduling a gathering over the vacations is not possible if you happen to are a sole parent. It may look like a small change, but it surely’s such a very important signal.”
Buzzacott appointed as external auditors
THE appointment of latest external auditors on a five-year contract with a possible break clause after three years was approved by the Synod. Six firms had been invited to tender. The Archbishops’ Council’s Audit and Risk Committee had chosen Buzzacott LLP, a London firm that works with Church of England and Roman Catholic dioceses, in addition to religious orders and other church organisations.
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