The Anglican Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East—also referred to as the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East—held its annual meeting of Synod on 12 May 2023, at the offices of the Diocese of Jerusalem.
The Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf was represented by its four Synod members—Bishop Michael and Archdeacon Christopher (Provincial Treasurer), and lay representatives David Axtell and Deborah Graham. It was noted with sadness that no representative from the Diocese of Iran was able to attend. Observers included the Venerable Paul Feheley (Middle East partnership officer for the Episcopal Church of the United States—TEC) and two representatives from USPG.
Synod opened with a welcome from Archbishop Hosam, who thanked Bishop Michael for his leadership of the Province. Items for discussion included the Provincial constitution, the Financial Report and the report of the Provincial Administrator, as well as approval of the minutes of the previous Synod which met at Sweimeh on the Dead Sea in Jordan in April 2022.
A closing service of Holy Eucharist was held on 13 May at the Cathedral Church of Saint George the Martyr and followed by a reception celebrating the Anglican Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East—giving thanks for the ministry of Bishop Michael, and marking the beginning of the ministry of the Most Reverend Hosam Naoum as President Bishop and Primate of the Province.
