Diocesan Synod met on Saturday 11th October to discuss the diocese’s strategy, the Diocesan Board of Finance’s budget for 2026, the annual report from the Diocesan Board of Education and progress across the diocese towards net zero carbon. The opening Taizé service, led by Bishop Mark, gave the opportunity for reflection, contemplation and prayer.
Opening address
Bishop David reflected on the recent synagogue attack in Crumpsall. He talked about the importance of standing with other faith and civic leaders alongside our Jewish sisters and brothers at their time of mourning, not to demonstrate our moral superiority in public, but simply because this is where love calls us to stand. He also talked about Black History Month which is currently being marked through displays at St John’s House. We must see our diversity as our strength and, against a narrow nationalist agenda, be prepared to proclaim the Gospel and stand alongside those who are marginalised and rejected. You can read Bishop David’s address here.
The Diocese’s Strategy
There were presentations and discussions on the diocese’s strategy which is based on the four themes of Growing Younger, Church Planting & Revitalisation, Developing Missional Leaders, and Parish Renewal. This is the basis for a substantial bid to national church for additional funding, which will be considered by the Church Commissioners in December.
During the update on Church Planting and Revitalisation, this film about the most recent church plant at William Temple in Wythenshawe was shown.
Diocesan Board of Finance Budget for 2026
Synod agreed the DBF budget for 2026, which will result in a projected deficit of £1.2m. This is a significant improvement on the projected deficit of £2.1m for 2025, mainly because of additional financial support from the national church. A key change for 2026 is an increase of 10.7% in clergy stipends, which have not increased in line with inflation in recent years.
Canon John Walsh, DBF Chair, presented the financial strategy and confirmed that the DBF is working to achieve financial sustainability by: growing our congregations; continuing to plan for an affordable level of stipendiary clergy; working with parishes to increase Parish Share in line with inflation; providing direct support to parishes with giving and generosity; and disposing of our surplus property assets.
Annual Review of the Diocesan Board of Education
Synod received the DBE’s annual review. Terry Hart, Deputy Director of Education, highlighted the DBE’s achievements in developing the distinctive Christian character of CE schools across the diocese and in developing our school leaders. You can read the full report here.
Progress towards Net Zero Carbon
Synod received a report on total carbon emissions for the diocese and progress towards achieving NZC across our churches, parsonages and schools. Darren Bamford, Director of Property, made a presentation on a pilot project for one of our parsonages, where triple glazing, solar panels and an air source heat pump have been installed.
