The policies, practices and priorities that drive all the work that we do across the Diocese of Newcastle is overseen by a large meeting of representatives called the Diocesan Synod.
This works similarly to civic county council meetings with an elected membership. Both lay and ordained members in the Diocesan Synod discuss and debate issues and then vote on ways forward.
The Diocesan Synod debates all kinds of matters across church life, from mission to financial planning. It is chaired by the Diocesan Bishop to both inform them and to gain inspiration from their leadership.
This synodical governance provides a system of partnership with the Bishop, ensuring that those serving and ministering within the Diocese can consider matters together and move forward in agreement.
The Diocese of Newcastle also has an elected membership of laity and clergy who sit on the national Church of England's General Synod along with the Bishop of Newcastle who is required to attend.