Slideshow image

An online virtual meeting of the Synod Council of the Diocese of Ontario was held on Tuesday May 24, 2022. Highlights of the meeting include: 

The Reverend Robert Porter opened the meeting with a devotion from the BAS.

The Bishop updated Council on a number of events, including the ordination of the Reverend Martha Riddell as deacon.  The service was held at St Mary Magdalene, Picton, where Martha is assistant curate. Bishop Peter Mason presided as Bishop Oulton was isolating with COVID-19.

Bishop Oulton provided Synod Council with an update from work that has been underway to consider how to move into our next Synod. The Steering Committee continues to work on the planning for a Synod in May 2023.

Colleen Lawrie from Wilkinson and Company presented the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the 2021 Financial Year. The Audit Committee chairperson (Canon Peter Case) presented the Audit Committee’s report and a recommendation that Synod Council adopt and approve the statements. Synod Council approved the statements. Once the Auditor has provided a copy of the approved statements (with the “Draft “watermark removed), they will be posted on the diocesan website. Overall, the Diocese of Ontario financial position improved in 2021.

The Diocesan Financial Officer Alex Pierson updated Council on several property related matters, parish receivables status and the 2023 budget process. Consultation session on priorities for the 2023 budget will be held in June.

The Archdeacon of Ministry and Program Wayne Varley provided an update on several programs, including DOORS (Refugee Support).

The Bishop thanked the members of the Worship Committee on their work for the Renewal Of Vows service and the Clergy Retreat held this year.

Next meeting of Synod Council will be Tuesday June 28, 2022. Normally,  Synod Council does not meet in July or August.

The approval of the minutes of the May 25 meeting are pending. For questions about Synod Council, please contact Alex Pierson, diocesan executive officer, by email at apierson@ontario.anglican.ca or by phone at 613-544-4718.