General Synod Election Candidates 2026

I am offering myself as a candidate for the General Synod after much
prayerful reflection, and with encouragement from those within the Church
with whom I have discussed this. I feel that my long and varied experience in
Church, as well as in life, mean that I could bring a positive approach,
openness and easy contact with others, all within the context of a deeply
rooted Anglican faith.
I was born in the north of England and lived on the south coast and in
London before moving to Switzerland. My parents were Methodist and
Anglican but my relationship with Anglicanism was strengthened by worship
at school and a growing appreciation of the liturgy and music. I was
delighted to find an Anglican church here within easy reach of the village
where I live. I have now been part of St. John’s Church family for almost 40
years, during which time my faith has deepened.
I have contributed to church life as a council member for very many years
and as a church warden until recently, including during several interregnums.
I am also responsible for organising food bank collections, representing our
church on the local ecumenical Round Table, for the World Day of Prayer,
and for the group working towards the recent recognition of the Anglican and
old Catholic churches in the Canton of Vaud. I am a long-standing member
and now president of the church endowment fund’s Board of Trustees.
Some of you may remember me as a safeguarding trainer in Switzerland
before training moved online. I enjoyed meeting people from the other Swiss
chaplaincies and other trainers from across the diocese.
I spent the majority of my professional life as a teacher, working with infants
and then with over 18s. I found this very enriching and, with pupils and
students coming from varied cultural backgrounds, I learned a lot from them
too.
My family are a very important part of my life. Together, we are mixed race
and nationalities, speak different languages but share similar core values and
embrace our differences. I lead an active life and appreciate living in the
beautiful Swiss countryside. I especially enjoy cultural events and travelling,
particularly to spend time with family in the UK.
Recently I have been looking for an opportunity to serve the wider Anglican
community. I am interested in issues concerning both the church and society
in general. I am sensitive to and respect diverse perspectives and believe we
can find ways to grow our church communities in different ways, being
inclusive while remaining faithful to the central tenets of the Anglican Church.

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