An online meeting of Synod yesterday (21 September), chaired by Bishp Sean, drew together clergy and lay representatives along with Diocesan Safeguarding Officer Linda Balfe and Chancellor Canon Andrew Khoo.

Bishop Sean’s Presidential Address referred to recent conflict in the region, noting that, “Unlike other conflicts, this latest war has shattered longstanding geopolitical and security relationships, and new political and defensive alliances have been swiftly forged. As the Middle East adjusts to a ‘new normal’ there will be an inevitable impact on the parishes and the common life of the diocese, the precise nature of which is yet to be seen.”

Bishop Sean commended parish clergy and lay-leaders, who have provided church services and pastoral care to people “shocked and traumatised during this war—simply carrying on during dangerous, disorientating and demanding times, inspired and empowered by their faith in Jesus Christ.

“God is indeed ‘…our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble’.” (Psalm 46.1)

He referred, too, to “the treasures of our great Anglican tradition”, emphasising the importance of having—and sharing—“a strong sense of our own identity, our own Christian tradition, in these disordered times.

“May our Lord continue to bless, preserve and protect the people and ministry of the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf,” said Bishop Sean, “in this Jubilee year and into the future.”

Synod business included discussion of revisions to Safeguarding Policy—Protecting the Vulnerable (available from the Diocesan website), SFC proposals on Diocesan policies, and draft articles from the Constitutional Review Committee. An update on finances was provided by Diocesan financial advisor Marinos Peslikas.

Synod will next convene in person, in February 2027 in Larnaca, Cyprus