The good news is, of course, that we have many more good days than bad. As we look forward to the final year of the quinquennium – must remember to brush up my election address – we can always judge the success of the Synod by the memories of all the experts that we have been privileged to witness – plus the experience of those who deal with our Retreat Houses, the people who worked on Trident, the personal stories associated with the social issues of addiction, racism or asylum welfare.

What is also amazing to me is that on a number of occasions the phrase “cometh the hour – cometh the man” has sprung to mind. I have a confession to make. I haven’t always found Andreas the most riveting of speakers. However, the work that he and others put in to make the Financial Crisis presentation so that it was accessible to most members of Synod was amazing. If only our theologians and liturgists could take a leaf out of that book on more occasions.

What am I leading up to? Well WE HAVE TALENT. We have the ability to make a difference in all sorts of ways. We can solve big problems. In fact with God’s help and guidance we are invincible.

Looking at the issues that face us at the moment (short and medium term) there isn’t a single issue that cannot be resolved through our talent with His help.

There is a tendency in the press and amongst some “narrow concern” pressure groups to talk up the pessimism. I believe we are bigger than that. We can move mountains if only we are prepared to see the wider cause – His Kingdom.
So, are we like a reality show? Are we the ultimate “reality”? I don’t know, but I trust that we are more like “Synod’s got Talent” than “Big Brother”!

Tim Hind : Chair OSG