Updated Sunday
Order paper for the day
Video of the day’s proceedings
The day began with a Presidential Address by the Archbishop of York.
The remainder of the morning was devoted to Safeguarding. After a presentation there was a debate on a motion which, after amendment (to add paragraphs (b) and (d)), read:
That this Synod, recognising that safeguarding is at the heart of Christian mission and the urgent need for the Church of England to continue to become a safer place for all and a refuge for those who suffer abuse in any context:
(a) endorse the priorities for action outlined in the report (GS 2092);
(b) endorse as an additional priority the support of safeguarding at parish level to create a safer church for all;
(c) call on the House of Bishops and the Archbishops’ Council to ensure that the plan of action is implemented as a matter of priority; and
(d) call on the House of Bishops to introduce, as a matter of urgency, ways to improve relations between the Church and those survivors currently in dispute with the National Church Institutions including, where appropriate, by the use of mediation processes.
The motion was carried by 368 votes to none, with two recorded abstentions.
Official press release: Synod backs action on IICSA themes
Stephen Lynas writes about Saturday’s business: There’s a shadow hanging over me…
Press reports
Hattie Williams Church Times Synod hears from abuse survivors and pledges reform
Harriet Sherwood The Guardian Church of England ombudsman to oversee sexual abuse cases
Olivia Rudgard The Telegraph Hostility and anger towards church on social media is stopping abuse survivors coming forward, vicar warns
Papers
GS 2092 Report by the National Safeguarding Steering Group
GS Misc 1188 Saturday Seminars
In the afternoon Synod members attended a series of private seminars.
Watch the live stream of General Synod here.