Your Synod Council at Work

Synod Council met Tuesday, May 26 at St. Paul’s, Kingston. Archdeacon Jane Humphreys read from Psalm 30 and followed this with prayer.

In his opening remarks Bishop William shared his busy schedule of parish visits and how much he is enjoying the many baptism and confirmation services across the diocese. He is happy to know that the book ‘To Love and Serve’ has been taken up by so many to read and he extended his thanks to the clergy and laity for their faithfulness and enthusiasm for this diocesan-wide study. Following the bishop’s remarks council moved in camera to receive a confidential report.

In the Finance Report Joyce Williams reviewed Q1 which is running under budget by 34k. With the projected annual budget running well under budget, she reported that the 1% service fees that were added to payroll and the PAG program will be removed as of June 1st, 2026. The hope is that this will help reduce the churches output and save some money which can help with growing utility and maintenance costs or be put toward community outreach or programming.

On behalf of the Investment Committee, Joyce reported that the fund had significant growth in 2025 and as a result the committee voted unanimously to extend an additional half percent on the next two quarter’s dividend. Any parish funds held by the diocese will receive 5.5% for the June 30th and September 30th dividends, regardless of if the funds are paid out or accrued. This is a one-time top-up in the hopes of further assisting the churches financially.

Joyce reported that the insurance invoices and packages were sent out on May 21st. We were happy to have our insurance brokers from HUB join the wardens and treasurers’ online meeting on that same day. Joyce encouraged parishes with policy related questions to feel free to reach out directly to HUB. For any invoicing questions please contact Joyce at jwilliams@ontario.anglican.ca.

A policy regarding the use of the diocesan credit card by staff was circulated to the members of Synod Council for their consideration. A motion to approve the policy will be made at the June meeting.

In other business a motion for permission for St. Lawrence, Brockville to apply to the Anglican Foundation for a grant in support of a new audio-visual system was approved. A motion for St. George’s Cathedral to proceed with the installation of new heating systems was approved, subject to the approval from the Cathedral’s Special Vestry meeting to be held on May 31st.

The next Synod Council meeting will be on Tuesday, June 23rd at St. Paul’s, Kingston and online.

The approval of the minutes of the May 26th meeting is pending. For questions about Synod Council, please contact the Ven. Jane Humphreys, diocesan executive officer, by email at jhumphreys@ontario.anglican.ca or by phone 613-777-0540.