44th Synod

While I am certainly in second-year-repeat-mode (today was my second Harvest Thanksgiving here at St. Joseph’s) by staying this extra few months there are some completely new experiences to be had. Last week it was our Diocesan Synod, the first for me and the first presided over by Bishop Philip Wright.

It took place in very nice quarters at the Best Western Biltmore Hotel in Belize City and, while the general format was familiar, there were a few noticeable differences from my Toronto experience.

• Everything began with a procession through downtown Belize, including all delegates, acolytes, two bands, schoolchildren and anyone else who wanted to be a part.


• Our places around the central square in the meeting room were pre-selected and with large identifying nameplates. I felt somewhat as if I were at the United Nations. Everyone was within easy reach of a microphone, making participation very easy.


• There were two “charges” by the Bishop, one at the Opening Solemn Evensong in the Cathedral and the second at the opening business session.


• Four guest speakers had been invited to speak to Synod, mostly on socially relevant topics such as The State of the Family in Belize.


• Almost the whole of Synod was taken up with four breakout groups looking, one each, at The Diocese in its Social Context, Growth and Expansion of the Diocese, Youth Ministry and Education, and Stewardship. A facilitator from Virginia made sure we stayed on track.


• Only one afternoon was reserved to receive all the reports and a host of constitutional changes and resolutions. The Financial Statements and Budget were not considered. They are the concern of the smaller Standing Committee, which meets between Synods.

The Diocesan Vision was kept before us:
Through the rich expression of our liturgical and sacramental life,
we will be a place where
God’s love and grace are experienced;
and our people are equipped to exercise their ministry
in the wider society.

Next Sunday we have planned the first service in many years at Big Falls, about 20 miles away, where one large family hopes to start a mission.

Pictures: (Click to enlarge)

• Bishop, Lay Delegate & PIC
• St. Joseph's Display