The synod met in Brittany in April 2010. Val was unable to attend, but we were represented by Alison & myself.
Business included the financial report by the Treasurer, which was positive enough to allow a 30% reduction in chaplaincy quotas for 2011.
There was some debate amongst the clergy about their pensions in the light of proposals to reduce these.
The lack of official translations into French of the book of Common Worship was again bemoaned.
The main content of the synod was a series of presentations of aspects of the Church’s ministry at different levels. Bishop Geoffrey talked about what being a Bishop means. The Dean of the Diocesan Cathedral in Gibraltar talked about its work in the life of the Diocese. The Revds Jenny Deverill & Paul Vrolijk spoke about the role of priests and the Revds John Moore and Peter Hales about their work as Deacons. Readers Valerie Thomas and Madeleine Holmes presented the ministry of readers. Synod members Roger Boot and Julian Aveling shared their perspectives of being active may members of chaplaincies.

The opportunity to discuss with members from other chaplaincies over meals and during some free time was appreciated, and is often the most useful aspect of the synod, as we encourage each other.