A good atmosphere, some humour, a dash of serious concern, a touch of celebration and a keen sense of anticipation. A worthwhile time with Welshpool & Bro Hafren Circuit, again catering for our needs in a generous manner.

Rosemarie Clarke, Sue Lawler and Liz Rowe, all ordained at Conference 2009 led opening worship. Ian Waugh, Superintendent Minister of the host Circuit, welcomed Synod before administrative matters were dealt with in a positively, constructively and helpfully. Appointments were agreed and representatives elected to Conference 2010: June Bennett, Norma Boocock, Graham Illingworth, Barry Lakin, Mike Long, Susan McIvor, Trevor Pratt and Liz Rowe.

Jonathan Walker and David Wigley are representatives to Youth Assembly. Synod was greatly encouraged by the number of youngsters intending to go to Youth Assembly and agreed enthusiastically to support them financially. A memorial is to be sent to Conference concerning eligibility for Youth Assembly. The Synod Chair, Stephen Wigley, spoke of the developments and innovations now being made under the heading of Youth Participation Strategy.

Reports from Policy Committee, Y Cyngor and Conference were received, the latter producing some laughter, some concern and, about pension contributions, a sharp intake of breath. Jack Healey and Brian Ham presented changes to property consents and financial matters.

Richard Hall, opened up the range of opportunities under EDEV. This was supplemented by a presentation from the Bible Reading Fellowship on Foundations21. Discussion about what was happening, and what might happen, was pursued energetically.

Amalgamations have meant a reduction in the number of Circuits from 26 to 17. Cathy Gale, Barry Smith and John Atkinson gave short accounts of how things felt at the beginning of three new Circuits. Ian Waugh, in his capacity as Rural Life Officer, told how a chaplaincy network was being developed to reach and meet the needs of people, of how this might be taken further by Circuits and how ecumenical team had maintained a chaplaincy during the Royal Welsh Show. Margaret Bizzell brought news of Network events in both north and south. Stephen Wigley would be present at the induction of Gillian Pengelly of the Cardiff Circuit as Connexional Network President.

An extended act of worship incorporated the Commissioning of the Assistant Chairs: Lin Healey, Keith Tewkesbury and Linda Woollacott. Synod was confronted by what might be described as the appearance of “liturgical wellington boots, pinafore and baskets of celebrations.” The point was well-made; that we are a team, working together, to the glory of God.

Synod will next meet, in Newtown. on 4th September, 2010.