Simon Says ...

This was the Synod when we had the ‘Shared Conversations’ about sexuality. All the build-up was about this.   As well as the normal bundle of papers, Synod members were sent three books – all about sexuality, from different perspectives.   I did read them all!   This Synod also stood in the shadow of the vote to leave the EU.   The Archbishops called an emergency debate, and the shadow of Brexit was long. The actual business of Synod, however, had to happen first.   We were addressed by a German Bishop, who reflected on the implications of Brexit and reminded us that the continent of Europe could not be voted away.   The Archbishop of York spoke about his Pilgrimage around his diocese, praying and speaking about the Gospel.   Duly fortified by this, we held the emergency debate on the EU.   The Archbishops proposed a motion that called ‘for all to unite in the common task of building a generous and forward looking country’.   We ...

What do we do when we are divided and want the opposite to one another?   We face this as a country after the vote for Brexit.   We are split in half.   A small majority will take us out of the EU, but then what?   Can we ever be a united country again? The Church is also divided.   I have just come back from the General Synod in York.   We decided to do something about our divisions over sexuality.   For 48 hours, we met for conversations.   We learned about one another and why we believe what we do.   There were tears, hugs, laughter, profound insights and differences.   I left exhausted, but hopeful that we can walk together into the future. We still disagree.   But now we understanding better where that disagreement comes from.   Most importantly we have stronger relationships.   We see less of an issue, and more of the people it affects.   What we did was meet, share our stories, tal...