Four decades of rule: How the General Synod works

The Church of England's General Synod meets later this month. here's the Londn Times explanation of how it works.

The General Synod is a legislative body for the Church of England. It has 467 members, from the House of Bishops, House of Clergy and the House of Laity.

In 1970, the Synod replaced the Church Assembly, which since 1919 had enjoyed autonomy over Church policy. Previously all development in the governance of the Church was exclusively by Act of Parliament, rendering progressive change difficult.

The Synod has the power to pass measures that can result in law. Members of the House of Commons and the House of Lords can block these measures but they cannot amend them.

There are two annual sessions of the Synod, each lasting between four and five days. The first is at Church House in London and the other at the University of York. If required a third meeting can take place in London in the autumn.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/faith/article5689464.ece