Elm Ridge Methodist Church, Darlington The Darlington District Spring
Synod was hosted by the Darlington Circuit at Elm Ridge Methodist Church. Once again the whole day was structured around the Priorities for the Methodist Church. After opening Worship led by The Revd Graham Evans, a Bible study was led by Revd Professor Kingley Barrett.
Following various bits of business the Synod was addressed by The Revd Mike Bossingham on his research regarding Family Friendly Churches. The Chair reported back on the discussion that had taken place at the Methodist Council specifically the anticipated cuts to the Connexional budget. Following this a late memorial expressing regret over the withdrawing of Connexional funding of the MAYC Orchestra and Singers was debated, although there was some sadness about the lack of support for the Orchestra and Singers the memorial was duly voted against.
After lunch and the possibility to experience Alterative Worship the Synod moved into workshops and discussion groups based around the themes of The Priorities.
These included Worship using Icons led by Rev Julie Lunn, Family Friendly Churches, Freshways of being Church led by Revd David Wilkinson, Evangelism for the non-evangelist! led by Mark Bagnell and The Church of the Furture -today with Anne Offler. The Chair expressed his thanks to all who had helped make the Synod a successful day.