Diocesan Synod of Western Newfoundland

The Diocesan Synod of Western Newfoundland is a Canadian nonprofit organization that functions as the governing body of the Anglican Diocese of Western Newfoundland, a diocese within the Ecclesiastical Province of Canada of the Anglican Church of Canada. It operates under the business registration number 119229920RR0001.

Overview

The Diocese of Western Newfoundland covers a region in Western Newfoundland and consists of approximately 77 congregations grouped into 30 parishes, serving around 17,888 members as of recent counts. Most parishes are multipoint, meaning one full-time clergy serves multiple congregations, supported by numerous lay ministers. The diocese is rooted in Anglican tradition and worship, with the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Corner Brook serving as its central church[2].

Mission and Vision

The mission of the Diocese, and by extension its Synod, is to worship and serve God by following Christ and utilizing the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Its vision centers on fostering a vibrant faith community deeply rooted in Christ and committed to loving and serving both God and the wider world. This vision guides its policies, programs, and outreach efforts[1].

Governance and Activities

The Diocesan Synod serves as the organizational and decision-making assembly of the Diocese. It convenes clergy and lay representatives from all parishes to deliberate on religious, administrative, and strategic matters affecting the diocese. It oversees important initiatives, including strategic plans for discipleship and ministry development.

A major recent campaign launched by the Synod is the Discipleship Campaign (2022–2026), designed to deepen the faith and active involvement of Anglicans throughout the diocese. This campaign seeks to increase engagement by encouraging members to become more active disciples of Christ, in accordance with biblical teachings such as the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20. The campaign included visits and training led by notable Anglican leaders such as Archbishop Stephen Cottrell of York and Bishop Mariann Budde of Washington D.C., generating substantial spiritual energy and enthusiasm across the diocese[4][5].

Charitable Status

The Diocesan Synod is a registered charity under Canadian law, which allows it to receive planned gifts and donations to support its various programs, including parish activities, diocesan initiatives, and national church efforts. This status facilitates fundraising and financial stewardship to sustain the diocese’s mission and outreach[1][3].

Leadership

The diocese is led by The Right Reverend John Organ, who guides both spiritual and administrative functions. The Synod also appoints members to the Cathedral Chapter, which plays an advisory and governance role within the diocesan structure[2][5].

This organization thus serves as the central governing and coordinating body of the Anglican Church's mission and ministry in Western Newfoundland, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to faith development, community service, and church growth within the local Anglican community.