The General Synod is the national legislative body of the Church of England, of which the King is Supreme Governor.
The General Synod legislates for the whole of the Church of England and debates matters of national and international importance. It has powers in the following areas: Legislation by Measure, Legislation by Canon, Relations with other Churches in the UK and around the world, Liturgy and Doctrinal Assent, Deliberation, and Finance. Watch this video to understand more about General Synod.
In General Synod, clergy and lay people stand separately for Houses of Clergy and Laity. The House of Laity is made up of lay people; church members who are not bishops, priests, or deacons.
The General Synod is made up of the Convocations of Canterbury and York, joined together with the House of Bishops, House of Clergy and House of Laity. Members are elected from their diocese, alongside a few nationally elected members. The General Synod typically meets two or three times per year, in London in February, York in July and occasionally in London in November. Further information about the General Synod can be found on the Church of England website.
Alongside the Bishop of Bristol, the following people currently represent the Diocese of Bristol at the General Synod within their respective House:
| House of Laity | House of Clergy |
| Dr Brendan Biggs Mr Ed Shaw Mrs Christiana Olomolaiye |
The Revd Canon Alice Kemp The Revd Paul Langham The Revd Kat Campion-Spall |
Clergy results
Notice of Results • Results sheet • Results sheet (spreadsheet)
Laity results
Notice of Results • Results sheet • Results sheet (spreadsheet)
Election addresses
During the nomination process, each nominee writes an election address to introduce themselves, their background, and their reasons for standing for synod. You can read the addresses of the current members below.