Delegates prepare for first online General Synod
Delegates are preparing to attend the first sessions of the 20th Convention of General Synod, which will be held online on 1 and 2 October.
The online sessions will be followed, God-willing, by in-person sessions next year. Dates and venue are still to be determined. In June, due to the emerging risk of COVID-related travel restrictions, General Church Board made the decision to split the sessions of General Synod across two years.
Almost all eligible entities (LCANZ parishes and governing bodies) have nominated the delegates who will represent them for the three-year synodical term. So far, however, only about one-half of them have registered to attend.
Dr Nigel Long, LCA Secretary of the Church, is urging delegates to register their attendance as soon as possible.
‘Only registered delegates will be able to participate in the online sessions and be able to vote’, he stressed. ‘Registering now will also give delegates the opportunity to participate in practice sessions, which will ensure that everyone is confident to use the online platform during Convention.’
Delegates will need to use their LCA email address to access the online sessions. They are therefore being urged to check their LCA email inboxes for updates and instructions, including information about online Synod training and practice sessions.
While Dr Long acknowledges that the 20th Convention will require delegates to perform their role in new ways, he is nonetheless confident that they will rise to the occasion and embrace the changes.
‘We’ve seen congregations adapt with remarkable flexibility to the challenges COVID has thrust upon them’, he said. ‘I am sure that delegates will adapt to online sessions of Synod with that same “can-do” spirit.’
Support is available for delegates who are not confident:
- Synod registrations, online training and practice sessions: email synod@lca.org.au or phone 08 8267 7300
- LCA email address and access to Synod online sessions – email itsupport@lca.org.au or phone 08 8267 7300.