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Synod Council met on Tuesday, February 24 at St. Paul’s, Kingston and online. Archdeacon Bill Clarke led devotions themed around ‘Thinking Day’ and Scouting values which emphasized worship that is accessible, engaging, and suited to the youngest present.

In his remarks, the bishop shared information about the diocese implementing Microsoft 365 email accounts for all parishes. The purpose of this is to protect church data, to improve security against phishing and fraud, and to provide centralized IT support. The cost per account is $5.00 per month. A FAQ sheet will be provided to parishes. The bishop also spoke about his recent parish visits and his upcoming pension fund work.

In business arising from the minutes, the bishop announced the appointment of Archdeacon Bill Clark as the diocesan representative to Alongside Hope.

For the finance report, Joyce Williams shared that the audit is underway and on schedule and that Green Sheets were sent out in February. She reported that the finance department is reviewing monthly, quarterly and annual service expectations and putting processes in place to meet them.

For property related matters, Jane Humphreys updated the Council on cemeteries in the diocese that are being transferred to their respective municipalities. She reported that relationships have improved with the BAO.

Under new business a motion to approve the request of St. Paul’s, Brockville, for permission to apply to the Anglican Foundation of Canada for grant money to renovate and make accessible the church washrooms carried. 

Archdeacon Jane Humphreys shared information from DOORS (Diocese of Ontario Refugee Support) and highlighted the work that Mimi Merril is doing with the community particularly on the ‘We’re Better Together’ campaign which seeks to improve public opinion regarding welcoming refugees. Mimi and the bishop are also planning an event in recognition of World Refugee Day (June 20). A date will be set in the week leading up to June 20 and announced. Jane also updated the Council on the work of the Diocese of Ontario Green Group which seeks to focus it’s work in 2026 on water privatization, providing education regarding AI demands on water and electricity, and Conservation Authority changes. The Group will hold its annual fall conference during the Season of Creation, date to be confirmed.

Archdeacon Bram Pearce spoke to the Council about his work as the director of faith formation. This new role emerged from the Bishop’s Charge to Synod 2025. The emphasis of this work will be on evangelism as culture, not program. Bram defined evangelism as “bearing witness to the goodness of God in Christ…so that others may encounter the transforming love of God.” The following work is underway: building an online and physical library of evangelism resources, meeting with clergy and Clericus groups, supporting parishes in choosing context-appropriate programs, and developing Confirmation prep resource list.

As the meeting came to an end, the bishop gave thanks for the work of Marilyn Benn who has resigned from the Council and he asked for prayers for Marilyn in her bereavement and as she moves to a new city. There are now two vacancies and the bishop shared that he is seeking recommendations for new Council appointees.

The next Synod Council meeting will be on Tuesday, April 28 from 6 to 8 pm in person and online.

The approval of the minutes of the February 24 meeting is pending. For questions about Synod Council, please contact the Ven. Jane Humphreys, Diocesan Executive Officer, by email at jhumphreys@ontario.anglican.ca or by phone (613) 777-0540.