Report from the General Synod of the Church of England
February 2026

By the Revd Andy Fyall, Ecumenical member for the Methodist Church of Great Britain and Chair of the Nottingham & Derby District

The February 2026 meeting of the Church of England’s General Synod took place at Church House, Westminster, amid divisions over sexuality, safeguarding reform, and declining public trust. A key issue was the future of the Living in Love and Faith (LLF) process on same-sex relationships, alongside structural reforms and leadership transition.

The Synod also marked the first gathering led by the new Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, following earlier scandals and calls for reform.

The General Synod formally opened on Monday 9th February, with early attention focused on matters such as the anticipated debate on the future of the LLF programme and Safeguarding reform and rebuilding trust in the Church.

The first address from the new Archbishop of Canterbury schwas given the following day at the opening of the session.

Archbishop Sarah Mullally’s address began with her acknowledging the humbling privilege of the ministry she now inhabits whilst not shying away from the ‘huge weight of responsibility’ that now confronts her.

The address included a call for compassion, transparency, and unity; set out a commitment to safeguarding reform and restoring confidence in the Church.

The underlying tone was rooted in an emphasis on hope rooted in the Gospel and strengthening local parishes for the mission and ministry to which they are called.

In my opinion, the Presidential address was widely framed as setting the tone for a period of rebuilding after institutional crises.

Several major decisions were taken during the sessions.

Safeguarding reform was widely endorsed, the Synod approving a strategy aimed at strengthening safeguarding and increasing independence in abuse oversight, reflecting years of criticism over handling of cases.

Social Issues and Human Sexuality Debates were the major items taken on the penultimate day of the Synod. This day included both social policy debates and the pivotal sexuality vote.

Synod debated poverty, marking the 40th anniversary of the Faith in the City report. Members committed to renewed advocacy and practical support such as food banks and outward facing missional work which meets needs and presents the Gospel in practical ways.

The most contentious discussions centred on the future of Living in Love and Faith and same-sex blessings.

Deep divisions between conservative and progressive factions remained unresolved.

The most consequential votes took place at the end of the fourth day of Synod.

Many heart felt speeches were offered with varying points of view. Towards the end of the debate I had the privilege of addressing the Synod representing the Methodist Church, Covenant partner of the Church of England. I was able to assure the Synod of the prayers and support of the Methodist Church as they enter a new phase of their journey regarding human relationships; to learn from our experience as we continue to live together with contradictory convictions.

Synod voted to conclude the LLF process and halt further work on introducing stand-alone blessing services for same-sex couples.

The vote ended years of debate over blessing same-sex marriages.

Plans for dedicated services for married same-sex couples were abandoned.

Although Living in Love and Faith has ended, Synod agreed to establish new consultative and working groups to continue theological and pastoral discussions in future Synods.

By the end of the sessions the Church formally stepped back from proposed same-sex blessing services.

Safeguarding reform and institutional rebuilding emerged as major priorities.

The Synod set the tone for a new leadership era under Archbishop Mullally, marked by attempts at stability rather than radical change.

The Synod is likely to be remembered as the moment the Church stepped back from formal same-sex blessing proposals and the beginning of a rebuilding phase after years of controversy and scandal.

My prayer is that the February 2026 General Synod might be seen as a turning point with the church focussing on its mission and ministry in its various and diverse contexts across England with a strong, prayerful and hopeful leader in the Rt Rev Dame Sarah Mullaley. She can be assured of my prayers and, I hope, yours too.

Rev’d Andy Fyall,

Chair of the Nottingham & Derby District

Ecumenical member of the General Synod for the Methodist Church of Great Britain

24th February 2026