General Synod Election Candidates 2026

Election Address 2026, House of Laity
Candidate
Heather Baker
Email: [email protected]
Proposer: Margaret Eyre, Deanery Synod Representative
Seconder: Ruth Sillar, Deanery Synod Representative
Background
I am 37 years old and worship at St Olave’s Church in York where I am also a
Deanery Synod representative. Since becoming a Christian at the age of 17, I have
enjoyed upholding the Church of England’s strong choral tradition, singing in several
chapel and church choirs over the years. I believe the Church of England is called to
be a sacramental, inclusive, and hopeful presence in every community. As someone
shaped by the liberal catholic tradition, I am committed to a Church rooted in
worship, generous in theology, and courageous in its public witness.
Professionally, I serve as a Public Health Practitioner for the City of York. My current
portfolio focuses on Drugs and Alcohol, where I work to ensure that some of the
city’s most vulnerable residents can access effective, compassionate support for the
treatment and recovery of substance use disorder. I also collaborate with partner
organisations to promote approaches that uphold dignity, minimise harm, and
respond to people in need with professionalism and care.
Why I am Standing
The General Synod carries significant responsibility for shaping the mission,
governance, and witness of the Church. I am standing because:

I want to help the Church respond wisely to the needs of a changing society
while remaining rooted in its sacramental identity.

I believe in strengthening trust between parishes, dioceses, and national
structures.

I care deeply about ensuring that national decisions reflect the lived
experience of local churches.

I want to contribute to debates with clarity, compassion, and a desire for the
common good.
My Approach to General Synod
If elected, I will:

 Listen attentively to the concerns and hopes of those I represent
 Engage constructively in Synod debates, seeking wisdom rather than victory
 Communicate openly about the work of the Synod, ensuring transparency and
trust
 Pray faithfully for guidance in all deliberations
General Synod holds significant responsibility for shaping the policies, structures,
and national direction of the Church. In particular:
Mission and Growth
The Church’s calling is both pastoral and missional. Communities of faith must be
nurtured and reach those who have not yet found a place within the life of the
Church. Growth is spiritual, rooted in conviction that the Gospel speaks to every
generation. Championing mission and growth means supporting parishes as they
respond to the needs of their communities. It encourages confident discipleship that
enables local mission. A church that welcomes, listens, and values all people is
better equipped to flourish and grow.
Inclusion
I believe that Church is for everybody, regardless of background, be that gender,
ethnicity, disability, sexuality or socio-economic status. I fully support the
representation of women in ministry and that there should be equitable participation
at every level of the Church.
Community
I believe that the Church’s strength lies in its relationships and shared purpose. A
church that values community recognises that faith is not only lived in worship but in
the everyday connections that sustain individuals and families.
Climate Change
The Church has a moral and theological duty to safeguard creation and act for the
common good. Climate change is already shaping the lives of communities across
the world. Championing climate responsibility means recognising that environmental
stewardship is integral to Christian witness and strengthens its social and ecological
commitment to justice, care and long-term stewardship.
It is hugely important to me that the General Synod has volunteers who are not
afraid to challenge and contest proposals from the Church.
Should I be elected, I will carry out my responsibilities with diligence and integrity. I
offer a strong and committed Christian voice- one that is willing to speak publicly with
clarity and conviction, and to represent you faithfully, sincerely, and energetically. I
will do so to the very best of my ability, guided by a deep sense of service.
Thank you for reading.
Heather

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