The Diocesan Synod of Glasgow and Galloway took place on Saturday, 22 February 2025, beginning with the Eucharist and Chrism Mass at Holy Trinity, Kilmarnock and continuing at the Howard Centre. The Rt Rev Andrew Swift, Acting Bishop of the Diocese, guided members of Synod through the business of the day.
The morning session included the appointment of a new Diocesan Treasurer (Dr Susan Burr), temporarily acting as Diocesan Secretary, as well as the elections of representatives to General Synod, Diocesan Council and the Faith & Order Board.
Jenny Whelan, the newly appointed PVG Officer, presented the Protection of Vulnerable Groups report, underscoring the Church’s commitment to safeguarding.
The Annual Accounts and 2025 Budget were presented and followed by table discussions exploring ways the Diocese can strengthen support for charges and their vestries. Before the lunch break, Bishop Andrew introduced his chosen Lent Appeal charity, Refuweegee. Founder and director Selina Hales delivered an impassioned address, sharing the charity’s inspiring work in welcoming and supporting refugees in Scotland over the past decade—a message that resonated deeply with the Synod.
The afternoon session reviewed the 2024 statistical returns of the diocese. While a continued decline was noted in congregational (-4.7%) and communicant (-5.6%) rolls, there was a significant rise in adult baptisms, confirmations, and marriages, marking a hopeful trend. Celebrations of Holy Communion increased by 54% from the previous year, with total communions up by 42%. Eastertide communions reached their highest level since 2019.
A report from the Diocesan Environmental Group, supported by Rev Stuart Bain (DEG chair), Rebecca Cadie, Petko Marinov, Prof Ian Arbon, and Iain Johnstone (Provincial NZAP team), was enthusiastically received and developed further over table discussions.
Members of Synod also voted in favour of the Alteration to the Schedule of Canon 22 as passed at first Reading at General Synod 2024. The Dean provided an update on St John’s, Annan which held its final service in 2024, explaining the provisions of Canon 36.12, which allowed for the closure of the charge. The Synod voted to approve the motion.
The Synod then heard from the Rev Canon Prof John Riches, who shared news of the Friends of Kaporo rice project, a recipient of support from the Bishop’s discretionary fund. The day concluded with a video message from the Bishop-elect, the Rev Canon Dr Nick Bundock, recorded in Uganda.
After Bishop Andrew expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to the smooth running of the Synod, the gathering closed with the Confirmation of the Acts of Synod and the Blessing.
