So. You‘ve done it! Brilliant campaign; nail-biting count and here you are! A new member of the General Synod. Now what?

First and foremost, it‘s like school. EVERYONE ELSE has been new too, however much they appear to have been born a GS member. Once upon a time they were also daunted, but over the years, they have learned how to do it, and may well be flattered to be asked for advice. So ask away! It‘s a good way to get to know people anyhow.

You‘ve heard about the Bumper Bundles which thud onto your doormat. But how to deal with the reality? Again, your returning diocesan colleagues probably have a method, so ask them! (All papers have a GS number, which is really useful when marshalling the papers for each debate, by the way).

I thought I had been elected to Make Stirring Speeches which would change the course of History (or at least of the Church of England). What a relief to realise that although of course I needed to stand to speak when I had some-thing distinctive to say, the really important task was to listen to the debates and to vote! After all, all Synod decisions are taken by voting.

I found the induction session for new members really useful. I made a number of good friends; the mechanics of the business became a little clearer - and I found the tea room.

But possibly the best part of that first day was the supper meeting organised by the Open Synod Group! There was an interesting discussion about the various agenda items, and a hugely warm welcome from lots and lots of people. This November, that welcome will be there for you, too.

Caroline Spencer: OSG Committee member