People from across the Diocese of Coventry are being encouraged to consider standing for election to the Church of England’s General Synod, with nominations opening later this summer.
General Synod is the national assembly of the Church of England, responsible for shaping and approving legislation, authorising forms of worship, debating issues of national and international significance, and approving the Church’s national budget. Elections for a new five-year term will take place during summer and autumn 2026.
The Diocese of Coventry will elect six representatives in total – three clergy members and three lay members – who will help represent the voices, experiences and concerns of churches and communities across the diocese at a national level.
The diocese is keen to hear from a wide range of potential candidates and is particularly encouraging people from backgrounds that may currently be underrepresented in the Church’s decision-making structures to consider standing. Almost anyone who attends a Church of England church regularly is eligible to stand as a lay member. You can check your eligibility here.
Those elected will serve for five years, taking part in General Synod debates, voting on legislation and policy, serving on committees and helping to shape the future direction of the Church of England. Recent issues considered by General Synod have included safeguarding reforms, clergy pensions, environmental commitments, clergy discipline, ethical investment and Prayers of Love and Faith.
As well as attending General Synod meetings, elected members are expected to engage with diocesan life by attending Diocesan Synod and sharing information and feedback with local church representatives. The role is voluntary and unpaid, although travel and accommodation expenses are covered.
Bishop Sophie says:
"This year, we will elect a new group of representatives from the Diocese of Coventry to the General Synod of the Church of England, and I am asking you to consider how God may wish to use you in this process - whether by standing for election, voting for candidates, or faithfully praying.
I am told that five years ago we had a very high level of engagement in this process, particularly in the voting, with over 70% of eligible voters having their say. This shows me just how invested our diocese is in its future and in the future of the Church of England, which is very encouraging.
Our current season of Walking Forward Together follows significant periods of listening and engagement, during which every voice has been important as we have discerned our refreshed vision, renewed strategy, and future direction. I have personally read every email, letter, and Post-it note, and so I know that we have some great thinkers and passionate advocates for the Kingdom of God within our diocese.
Please consider how God may be wishing to use you in relation to the Church of England’s General Synod.
Take a look at our information page for details about the process, including eligibility criteria, key timelines, and ways in which you can take part.
Ideally, we would love to see the full diversity of our diocese represented; young and old, urban and rural, and from a wide range of ethnicities and church traditions so please do consider what part you might play."
Nominations will open on 14 August and close on 7 September 2026. Candidates will be invited to submit a written statement and optional video introducing themselves and explaining what they would bring to the role. Voting will take place between 21 September and 13 October, with results expected to be announced by 19 October.
Anyone interested in standing for election is encouraged to check the eligibility requirements and contact the diocesan elections team for further information. You can find more information here.
For more information, email elections@coventry.anglican.org