Clergy and lay representatives from across the Anglican Diocese of Canberra and Goulburn gathered at Canberra Grammar School from 11 to 13 September for Synod 2026, a time to worship, pray and consider together the future life and mission of the Diocese.
Synod has a long history within the Anglican Church, bringing together representatives of the wider Church to participate in its discernment and governance. This year’s considered a range of priorities shaping the future of ministry across the Diocese.
Throughout the event, conversations explored collaboration and shared ministry, new directions in children and youth ministry that respond to current needs, and the future sustainability of ministry in rural and regional communities. Raising up future ministry leaders was a particular focus, with Bishop Mark challenging the Diocese to see 80 people raised up for ministry leadership by 2036. Synod also considered how the Diocese and St Mark’s can continue to encourage and equip people for ministry across a Diocese spanning approximately 78,500 square kilometres.
Synod also took important steps towards greater disability inclusion, including adopting a Theology of Disability and Disability Policy and supporting the establishment of a Diocesan Disability Advisory Committee. These discussions reflected a broader focus on building strong, welcoming and sustainable ministries that respond to the needs of communities across the Diocese.
For Anglicare, which supports people with disability across our communities, this commitment strongly reflects our shared mission. We welcome the opportunity to work alongside parishes and the wider Diocese to strengthen inclusion, participation and belonging for people with disability.
Anglicare was honoured to contribute to these broader conversations, sharing how its ministry, services and partnerships are responding to changing needs across the communities we collectively serve.
Deputy Chair Jane Bacot-Kilpatrick, Chief Executive Officer Trevor Ament and Anglicare Chaplain Sue Robertson spoke of Anglicare’s continued stabilisation, carefully targeted growth, and the importance of strong governance and stewardship in supporting sustainable, compassionate service.
Their presentations highlighted developments across Anglicare’s services, including increased support for women and children escaping domestic and family violence through Yass Safe Places, developed with the support and partnership of Yass Valley Anglican Parish, and Nano Nagle Cottage in Wagga Wagga. They also explored the growing role of chaplaincy and parish partnerships in offering pastoral care, connection and hope.
Importantly, Anglicare’s contribution reinforced a theme present throughout Synod: that our ministries are strengthened through collaboration and a shared commitment to the communities we serve.
In the year ahead, we look forward to continuing to work alongside parishes and communities in our shared mission of serving people experiencing vulnerability and disadvantage.
Visit the our services section of our website to learn more about all of our programs and initiatives.
