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Synod Council met Tuesday October 1 at 6:00 pm in the St. Mark’s, Barriefield, Church Hall. Canon Michael Read led an opening devotion based on Psalm 19.

The Bishop updated Council about several matters including human trafficking, the appointment of Reverend Margaret Johnston-Jones as canon pastor, the appointment of Reverend Robert Porter as incumbent of St. John’s, Kingston commencing October 1, His Majesty’s Chapel Royal Choir coming to our diocese in 2025, and our diocese will host the next session of Provincial Synod in 2027.

Canon Michael Read and Barb Gilbert, co-chairs of diocesan Synod, updated Council about planning for next year’s session of Synod, draft agenda #5, the theme, keynote speaker, workshops and elections.

Bishop William and members of Council who attended last week’s Provincial Synod in Sault Ste. Marie provided an update about the gathering characterized as a positive and engaging Synod.

The Diocesan Financial Officer, Alex Pierson, gave a diocesan property update emphasizing asset optimization, creative strategies in respect of usage, conversations with Nicola Wealth and Synod Council approved a resolution declaring St. Paul’s Church, Marlborough disused.

Alex continued with a financial update indicating the trend of declining income, rising investment fund withdrawls by parishes, and a current projected 2025 increase in costs of approximately $100,000, as well as identifying a few solutions for consideration.

Synod Council approved a resolution permitting St. George’s Cathedral to improve electrical work in the church hall, approved a resolution for an Anglican Foundation Grant of $15,000 for the Cathedral in support of youth music programming, and approved a resolution permitting St. Mark’s, Barriefield a sanitary service extension connecting with neighbouring city property.

The next meeting of Synod Council is scheduled for Tuesday October 22 at 6:00 pm in St. Mark’s, Barriefield, Church Hall.