General Synod Election Candidates 2026

As a non-stipendiary priest, I would like to put myself forward to serve
Durham Diocese on General Synod. I minister with one foot in the parish
and one in the workplace.
I came to faith from a very early age. My faith has been a constant source
of strength in my life, knowing His Grace has given me a foundation, and
His Spirit continues to lead me to be committed in all I do. I believe God
calls us to a life of courageous hope, not fear.
If elected I pray that my contribution to Synod will be marked by Christ like
humility, listening carefully to different traditions within the Church of
England, a church that is inclusive to all.
My role as an Asda Community Champion takes me into some of the most
deprived communities in the country, alongside people who often feel unseen by those who make
decisions about their lives. I know that world, because I come from it.
My working class roots shape how I listen, how I lead, and whose interests I hold when hard choices are
made. If elected, I will bring the voice of the voiceless into Synod’s debates and speak for a church that
speaks credibly to every community.
I’d really appreciate your support as your first-choice candidate. The next page shares some kind words
from people who are supporting my nomination. I also hope to contribute on General Synod through
faithfully representing the Diocese of Durham, bringing my local experience into national conversations
with integrity and care. Thank you for considering my nomination.
I would be honoured to receive your first preference vote.

KEY PRINCIPLES
Skills and approach
I bring an open mind, prayerful discernment, and deep respect for
differing views. Listening well enables me to contribute
thoughtfully to complex decisions and to build strong relationships
across the breadth of our church.
Community focused
Our calling is to serve others in food banks, schools, and
communities facing hardship, so that we remain outward-looking
and rooted in compassion.
My contribution
I will listen attentively, discern prayerfully, and work
collaboratively across traditions. I am committed to supporting
frontline ministry, honouring all viewpoints, and approaching
difficult debates with grace.
Donna Robinson for General Synod 2026
Proposer The Revd Dr Richard Briggs Seconder The Revd Canon Dr Alan Barlett

Donna Robinson for General Synod

Revd Tom and Mavis Worsley say, ‘Donna first visited
Christchurch in Felling in 2022, as Asda’s Community Champion
to present a funding cheque. She saw our community work at
firsthand - refreshments, hot food, crafts and food bags and
quickly connected with our local families. She also engages
with Age UK, Health watch and the Community Wellbeing
Mental Health Team, always with a warm smile and ready to
help. I hope you will give her your first preference vote.’

If you have any questions, I would be very happy to hear from you.
I am committed to inclusivity and equality for everyone in the church, whatever their identity or
circumstances. Thank you.

Email: [email protected]
Mobile: 07908 090 309
Seconder The Revd Canon Dr Alan Barlett
Mission Priest St Edmund’s Church Bearpark and Visiting Fellow in
Anglicanism, St John’s College, Durham says, ‘Donna is a crucial voice for
the Church of England to hear: a fine priest, rooted in the Catholic
Anglican tradition and working class. Her recent interview shown at
General Synod had a big impact. She is one of “ours”.
Please give her your first preference vote’.
Proposer The Revd Dr Richard Briggs
Principal of Lindisfarne College of Theology; Tutor in Old Testament and
Biblical Studies and Associate Priest at St Catherine's, New Brancepeth
says, ‘Donna has a zest for life, genuine love for God and people, and is
willing to try anything. She has overcome a whole range of obstacles in
getting through to ordination, and she brings a down-to-earth realism to
everything she does, combined with a really positive attitude’.

Izzy McDonald-Booth, General Synod 2015-2026 and G.S. Panel of Chairs says, ‘Donna is deeply
true to herself, discovering a real joy in learning and in listening to people from many backgrounds.
Her confidence lifts others, grounded in a rich and authentic faith. She brings a vital working class
perspective to General Synod, with a wholehearted desire to serve the people of Durham Diocese.’
Donna Robinson 1

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