General Synod Election Candidates 2026

Revd Keith Addenbrooke
Vicar of Birkenhead St James with St Bede
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 0151-652-1016

Who am I?
I’m married to the wonderful Revd Jane Addenbrooke, we have four amazing daughters, two
of whom are married, and three delightful grandchildren. I was Ordained in Chester in 2007
after a career in Industry and Local Government, working in Finance and Management.
I’ve served in Parishes and Benefices large and small, with new fellowships and with
established congregations, on both sides of the Diocese and across the social spectrum.
Much of my ministry has been in small Churches in areas of Urban deprivation on the Wirral.
I’ve been at St James in the North End of Birkenhead since 2018, where I am also a Trustee
of our local Community Centre. I’m involved in the Feeding Britain movement set up by
Frank Field MP and support a community regeneration programme focusing on young
people and families. I’m the Associate Rural Dean for Birkenhead Deanery and at Diocesan
level serve on the Diocesan Synod and the Committee for Ministry. I am a Vocations
Explorer and have supported several Curates through training, working across the traditions.
Why am I standing for General Synod?

1. As a voice for small Churches where resources are scarce, volunteers well-hidden and

ends generally don’t meet, yet where God may do incredible things and there can be
much to celebrate. Small churches are too often under-represented and undervalued.

1. As an experienced minister committed to being Anglican, not simply being an Anglican.

What do I mean? I have served and rejoiced in Parishes from the Anglo-Catholic to the
Evangelical, and from the Central to the Charismatic (my own tradition). I believe Christ’s
prayer in John 17 is a first order call to unity - for the glory of God and for the mission
and witness of the whole Church to our communities. On difficult subjects I commit to
listen carefully and vote compassionately. I aim to serve our whole Diocese in this way.

1. As someone who knows life isn’t always easy. My wife Jane lives with Multiple Sclerosis,

and as a family we have experienced the challenges of neurodiversity and seasons of
poor physical and mental health. I bring my own experiences and insights here to the
table too, at a time in our society where increasing understanding is front and centre.
Should you vote for me?
I would ask us all to consider prayerfully how to vote, using our preferences to ensure the
richness and diversity of our Diocese and the communities we serve are well represented.
I would hope to play my part in representing us all on General Synod. Thank you, Keith.
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