baptist,crime,diocesan structures,drug,finance,justice,mission,pcc

Application to stand for election to the General Synod
John Adams JP
I am writing to ask for your support in my application stand for election to the General Synod of the Church of England.
I do so with a mixture of humility, and a deep sense of responsibility.
I have been a conscientious member of God’s Christian church all my life, and my Christian faith has been the very essence of who I am and how I conduct my life. Over the recent years I have had the privilege of serving my local church PCC, at St Mary Magdeline in Christchurch Deanery, and have been very actively involved in the small church, within the same parish, St John the Baptist.
I have been elected represent my church on Christchurch Deanery Synod, and Winchester Diocesan Synod. I have volunteered to serve on the Diocese Finance committee for several years. I am elected to be a member of the Winchester Diocese House of Laity and have been elected to be on the Bishops See Committee.
This involvement in the church has allowed me to understand the way the Church operates and understand other parishes’ successes and problems.
I value the ability and enthusiasm that so many clergy and congregation have to worship the Lord and successfully live the way of the Lord in their everyday lives. I join others by wanting to see the church that is confident in its faith, welcoming all visitors to join their aspirations.
I realise that the Church is facing some significant challenges. Congregations have financial restraints, while buildings require constant attention, and help to maximise their potential. Ideally a church can serve the public seven days a week.
At the same time there are enormous opportunities for mission, community engagement and the need to help and be open to the needs of families, the needy, and aged in the community.
I have been volunteering my services to the community all my adult life.
I was a Special Constable when just twenty years old, that gave me the understanding of the poor, the lonely, and the needy.
I have been a local councillor for over twenty years, allowing me to actually join local residents’ groups, become a Governor of two General hospitals, and meet communities to fundamentally assist and understand people’s problems.
I have been the Chairman of Dorset Police and Crime Authority, having the ability to understand the problems of retaining Law and Order.
I was a Justice of the Peace for almost 30 years, and became the Chairman of Dorset Magistrates Association, studying ways of dealing with crime, and attending meetings in London to reflect on ways to prevent crime in the community.
I am a trustee of Hope, a charity for the homeless, that re homes, and addresses the problems of drug taking and psychological harm that so many have around us.
I appreciate the communities’ worries and fears, and the Church, the centre of each town, is a welcoming sight, reflecting God’s love for all, not judging, but welcoming, and forgiving.
My experience on financial, and community boards, has shown me the importance of making difficult decisions responsibly. Good intentions, and ambitions are not enough. We, at this precarious time, must make the most of our resources, use them wisely, and remain accountable.
I have not reached the decision to stand for General Synod lightly.
I know it involves a significant commitment of time and responsibility. However, I believe I have the skills to add, and question and listen to all. I have the experience of serving many authorities and are fully aware of Diocesan structures, and Deanery responsibilities.
I would bring to synod my experience, tact, willingness to listen and learn. I also bring a deep affection for the Church of England, and I have a great desire to see it flourish.
Throughout my life I have been a solid, accountable team leader. I want to address the necessary need to accept change, without abandoning the traditions and values that have historically been upheld for decades.
If elected, I would regard it as a huge privilege to serve on the General Synod, to represent the views and concerns of those who have put trust in me.
I am a hard worker, good communicator, good listener, and think it necessary to report back to all interested parties, when allowed, to make our work transparent to all.
I would be so grateful of your support. Thank you,
Sincerely,
John Adams