If you think General Synod is just about formal meetings, you will be surprised at the interesting programs the host diocese of Niagara has lined up for delegates and visitors at the 37th General Synod 2004, at Brock University, St. Catherines, Ont. from May 28 to June 4 2004.
As host, the diocese of Niagara has put in place a local arrangements committee under the guidance of archdeacons Marion Vincett and Bruce McPetrie. The local committee will focus on ground transportation and will ensure that delegates and visitors are welcomed at various receptions and dinners.
“Our people are going to be blessed by seeing and knowing people from other dioceses,” said Ms Vincett, co-chair of the planning committee. “We have a hospitable bishop and we do enjoy having company in the diocese of Niagara … we looking forward to all delegates and visitors.”
Programs for children and young people are also being arranged. “We want the youth to feel that they are part of the General Synod; there will be time for (them) to get together socially and also to participate in worship,” said Mr. McPetrie, the other co-chair.
A visit to local parishes is also being arranged. Tentatively parish visits are set to take place on Sunday, May 30, 2004. This will give delegates and visitors the opportunity to worship with local parishioners.
Since Niagara is in a major tourist attraction zone, optional tours have been organised under the Companions’ Program, which is designed specifically for the enjoyment of those accompanying delegates to the General Synod 2004.
The program will offer four special excursions, which include a visit to either the Niagara Falls or wineries. Wine tours are very informative, your day may include tours of individual wineries, or you may simply move from tasting bar to the next.
Sub committees have been created to work on the preparations and planning for the different programs and activities.
As with the planning of any complicated event, logistics are always a burden. The host diocese has a budget of about $65,000 for General Synod. “The challenge is to keep within the budget line said Mr. McPetrie, adding that “about $8,000 will go for transportation alone.”
A key element in the preparations for Synod 2004 is the recruitment and management of volunteers to ensure that the event runs smoothly. A local committee has been set up and is already processing application forms. So far 38 people have registered as volunteers, but the figures are expected to increase within the coming months.
Besides welcoming and assisting delegates and visitors, the volunteers will also be responsible for transporting people to and from various Synod 2004 locations.
Preparing for General Synod 2004 has challenged parishes in Niagara to work together and learn from each other. “It has been a time for us to discover new talents within the diocese and for the diocese to know itself better,” said Mr. McPetrie.
Since the diocese of Niagara is currently engaged in its own strategic planning process, the theme of Synod 2004, “See I am Making All Things New,” is very relevant to the parishes, said Ms Vincett.
Issues on the agenda for synod such as same-sex union, aboriginal issues and the election of the new primate have created a huge interest amongst parishioners.
“These challenges before our church affect us all, it is our hope that General Synod 2004 will create an atmosphere of spirituality and prayer to fulfill our Christian mission,” said Mr. McPetrie.