General Synod Election Candidates 2026

Personal Statement for Consideration as a Lay Member of General Synod
I would be honoured to be considered as a Lay Member of the General Synod,
representing my parish and contributing to the wider life and mission of the
Church of England.
My faith is rooted in the evangelical tradition and shaped by a commitment to
the authority of Scripture, the saving grace of Jesus Christ, the importance of
prayer, and the call to share the gospel through both word and action. Through
my involvement in parish life, I have seen firsthand the vital role the Church
plays in offering worship, pastoral care, fellowship, and hope to people from all
walks of life. I am passionate about ensuring that the voices of local
congregations are heard and represented in the decisions that shape the
future of our Church.
Professionally, I have extensive experience in leadership, governance, finance,
and organisational change. These skills have equipped me to listen carefully,
weigh evidence, engage with differing viewpoints, and make balanced
decisions with integrity and accountability. I believe these qualities would
enable me to contribute constructively to the work of Synod and to represent
faithfully the concerns of those I serve.
As an evangelical Anglican, I am committed to a Church that is faithful to
Scripture, centred on Christ, and focused on mission. At the same time, I
recognise the richness and diversity of the Church of England and the
importance of listening respectfully to those with different experiences and
perspectives. I would seek to engage in Synodical debate with humility, grace,
and a desire to build understanding, even where views differ.
I am particularly passionate about helping the Church remain effective in its
mission, sustainable in its stewardship of resources, and relevant to the
communities it serves. The challenges facing the Church today require
prayerful discernment, courageous leadership, and a willingness to work
together for the common good.
If elected, I would endeavour to be an active and accessible representative,
listening to parishioners and deanery members, communicating openly, and
ensuring that local perspectives are reflected in national discussions. Above all,
I would seek to serve faithfully, prayerfully, and with integrity, seeking God's
guidance in all that I do.
I ask for your prayers and support as I offer myself for this role, trusting that
together we may continue to strengthen the witness and ministry of the
Church in our communities and beyond.

"Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the
reason for the hope that you have." (1 Peter 3:15)
Why I Am Standing
I am standing because I believe the Church is at its strongest when faithful
Christians from local parishes contribute to the discernment and decision-
making of the wider Church. I want to bring an evangelical voice that is rooted
in Scripture, committed to mission, and informed by practical leadership
experience.
I am passionate about seeing churches flourish, disciples grow in faith, and
communities encounter the love of Christ. I would seek to represent my parish
and deanery faithfully, ensuring that local voices are heard, while working
collaboratively with others across the Church to support its mission and
ministry for future generations.
Karen Booker 26/08/2026

accountability,discernment,disciples,evangelical,finance,gospel,mission,prayer,scripture,stewardship,tradition,witness