General Synod Election Candidates 2026

Rev Roger Driver
Rector, St Michael’s Without
Area Dean, Bath
Proposed: Rev Dr Jane Durham
Assistant Area Dean, Glastonbury Deanery
Priest-in-Charge, Wheathill Benefice
Seconded: Rev Caroline Deakin
Area Dean, Locking Deanery
Vicar, St Peter’s Milton & Mead Vale
Weston-Super-Mare
About
I am pleased to stand for election to the General Synod because I believe that the Church of
England is at its best when it focuses on Jesus Christ, is rooted in the gospel, and is dedicated
to uplifting every community with faith, hope, and love.
For over thirty-six years I have served in parish ministry, much of it in urban and priority
communities. During that time, I have seen the extraordinary difference local churches can
make when they are rooted in prayer, committed to discipleship, and engaged in the lives of
the people they serve. My passion remains helping churches flourish, enabling people to
encounter Jesus, grow in faith, and discover their place in God’s mission.
Born and raised in the South West, I now serve as Rector of St Michael’s Without in the heart
of Bath. Before ordination, I worked in a variety of roles, experiences which gave me a lasting
appreciation for the challenges and opportunities of everyday life. They continue to shape my
desire for a Church that is accessible, welcoming and connected to the communities around it.
As a parish priest, I remain deeply committed to the vows made at my ordination and
licensing, and to serving the Church of England with faithfulness, humility and confidence in its
doctrine and mission.
Alongside parish ministry, I have served at different times as Area Dean, Training Incumbent,
member of Bishops’ Council, Chair of the House of Clergy in the Diocese of Bath and Wells,
Trustee of Trinity College Bristol, and member of CPAS’s Council of Reference. While serving
in Liverpool Diocese, I was elected twice to General Synod. For the last five years, it has been
a privilege to represent the Diocese of Bath and Wells, bringing the concerns, hopes and
experience of local churches into national discussions and decision-making.
Looking Ahead
The next five years will be significant for the Church of England.
We face important challenges around safeguarding, clergy wellbeing, encouraging younger
generations in faith, supporting parish ministry, stewarding resources wisely, and speaking with
confidence and compassion into a rapidly changing society. At the same time, there are real
opportunities. Many people are searching for meaning, belonging and hope. The Church has
something profound to offer: the life-changing good news of Jesus Christ.
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I want to support a Church that is:
Rooted in prayer and Scripture
Confident in sharing the gospel
Committed to the flourishing of parish ministry
Dedicated to the highest standards of safeguarding
Supportive of clergy and lay leaders
Intentional about nurturing children, young people and families
Engaged in serving the common good
A gracious and hopeful Christian presence in every community
I believe our Church is strongest when we listen carefully, work collaboratively and seek the
guidance of the Holy Spirit together. We may not always agree on every issue, but we share a
common calling to make Christ known and to serve God’s people faithfully.
General Synod has a vital role in ensuring that national structures support local mission rather
than hinder it. I would like to see continued attention given to simplifying processes, reducing
unnecessary burdens on clergy and parishes, and directing resources towards ministry,
mission and growth. If elected, I hope to continue as an appointed member of the National
Funding for Diocesan Ministry Synod Reference Group.
What I Would Bring
If re-elected, I would seek to bring:
More than thirty-six years of parish ministry experience
Five years of recent service on General Synod
Significant experience of diocesan leadership and governance
A strong commitment to parish ministry and local mission
A collaborative and constructive approach
A willingness to listen carefully and speak thoughtfully
A commitment to faithful service on behalf of the Diocese of Bath and Wells
I am standing not to promote myself, but to serve. Those who know me will know that
throughout my ministry I have sought to encourage others, build relationships and support the
flourishing of churches and clergy. I would approach General Synod in that same spirit:
listening well, contributing constructively, and representing our Diocese faithfully and
prayerfully.
Despite the challenges facing the Church, I remain hopeful. I continue to see lives transformed
by the gospel, churches renewed through prayer, and communities strengthened through
faithful Christian witness. I believe God has much more in store for the Church of England, and
I would be honoured to continue serving our Diocese as part of that journey.
I would greatly value your support and your prayers.
Roger Driver
Rector, St Michael’s Without, Bath
Chair of the House of Clergy, Diocese of Bath and Wells
Member of General Synod 2021–2026
[email protected]
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