General Synod Election Candidates 2026

REVD ADRIAN CLARKE
Candidate for General Synod (Diocese of London)
Member of the Clergy Team, St Barnabas Church, Woodside Park,
Edmonton Diocese
Shaping the Future of Our Diocese
As a current member of General Synod, I am deeply privileged to have been appointed to
the Crown Nominations Commission (CNC) interview panel that will select the next Bishop
of London. This is a profound responsibility, as the next Bishop will guide our diverse diocese
through a critical season. Having this seat at the table ensures that the voices, challenges, and
hopes of London's clergy are directly represented in this vital decision.
Who I Am: A Life of Diverse Perspectives
For those who may not know me, I offer myself to serve the Diocese of London on General
Synod. I bring a unique blend of experiences that helps me see situations from multiple angles
and find suitable solutions [1]:
•
Fresh Insight & Mixed Ecology: As a member of the GMH Clergy, I believe this gives me
fresh eyes on our core challenges. As a Black man brought up in a white family, I am a
living illustration of what it is to be of "mixed ecology". This background has taught me to
navigate complex, diverse spaces, see situations from multiple angles, and seek unity
across differences—an asset as we strive for greater diversity.
•
Business & Strategy: Prior to ordination, I ran my own Marketing Agency in
Hertfordshire for 25 years. This experience equips me with strategic thinking and
financial discipline.
•
Family & Roots: I live in Hendon with my wife, Andrea and we have two adult sons. We
are fitness enthusiasts—I love road and off road cycling, while Andrea is training for her
fourth half marathon.
What others say about me…

Adrian is charismatic man of great depth of faith and a preacher who fearlessly
proclaims the truth of the Gospel and I commend him for election to General Synod.
Father Angus Beattie

I have been very impressed by the growth, diversity and vibrancy of Faith House which
has demonstrated the courage, creativity and tenacity Adrian brings to his ministry
and will also bring to General Synod
Rev Sarah Archer Director Of Ministry (|Edmonton)

Adrian is passionate about the church and the place and role of the synod in the
Church of England. During his previous term and even now he continues to be a
champion, encouraging both clergy and laity to be aware of and to support the
synodical processes of the church.
Rev Dudley Hancile

Adrian Clarke brings the wisdom of his experience of planting a BMO in the high-
density urban area of the A5 corridor, one of the most unreached parts of the diocese-
he is an essential missional voice to speak into Synod in this season
Rev Andy Sachs
Adrian has been a very valuable addition to Synod and I would love to see him re-
elected. He is a wise, effective advocate for sections of the church whose voice needs
to be heard more clearly
Rev Charlie Skrine

My Stance on Key Issues Facing Our Church
Our Synod must address the pressing realities facing our parishes with both courage and
compassion. Here is my stance on the crucial issues:
•
Clergy Care, Safeguarding, and Discipline: As someone who experienced abuse at a
boarding school in the 1970s and was subsequently helped toward healing by a Vicar, I
know firsthand the pain of abuse and the saving grace that faithful clergy can be. I am
deeply passionate about making the Church of England a safe, restorative space for the
vulnerable. I will fight for robust safeguarding and a fair, pastoral approach to clergy
care.
•
Racial Equality & Representing London: Having encountered racism many times, I am
committed to raising racial equality across our Church. Our own Church in Colindale is
one of the most diverse in the country with over 28 nations present in the one
congregation. Our leadership nationally and locally must represent the vibrant, global
diversity of the London area.
•
Living in Love and Faith (LLF): I hold a traditional view of marriage, but I deeply
recognize the pain this debate has caused. We must approach these discussions with
sensitive, genuine listening and deep care for those with differing views.
•
Vision & Strategy for a Broad Church: I am a passionate defender of a "Broad Church"
approach. For our mission to succeed, the Anglican Church must remain a home for all
expressions and flavours of faith. We must also lead on climate change and ensure our
investments are held with ethical integrity.
Pledged to Be Your Voice
Synod can often feel distant from the daily reality of parish life. I pledge to keep you regularly
updated and to be an active, accessible voice for the clergy of London.
If I get elected, I want to hear from you. As I prepare for the CNC interview panel to select the
next Bishop of London, and as I stand for General Synod, your thoughts, concerns, and prayers
are invaluable to me.
•
To join my communications list (which I will setup if I get elected) please contact me
directly at my dedicated email: [email protected] and then I will
communicate with you about debates that are happening in Synod
I hope I can count on your primary vote to serve you.

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