Good Shepherd REC in Tyler, TX.
What Is a Synod?
A Look Inside the Anglican Tradition of Church Governance and Fellowship
By Rev. Steve Macias
Each year, churches across the Reformed Episcopal Church (REC) gather for a special event known as a Synod. As part of the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA), our dioceses follow a historic pattern of shared governance and spiritual unity. But what exactly is a synod—and why does it matter?
A Gathering of the Church
A diocesan synod is the annual meeting of clergy and lay representatives from all parishes within a diocese. It serves as both a business meeting and spiritual convocation. During Synod, delegates come together to:
- Worship through Morning Prayer and Holy Communion
- Hear teaching and encouragement from bishops and clergy
- Review ministry reports and diocesan updates
- Vote on key matters such as budgets, leadership, and resolutions
This process is a vital part of the Anglican tradition, where the Church is governed in community—not by bishops alone, but with the prayerful counsel of both clergy and lay leaders.
A Joyful Opportunity for Fellowship
Synod isn’t just a meeting; it’s also a joyful gathering of the Body of Christ. Meals are shared, friendships are renewed, and new connections are formed across parish lines. It’s a chance to see how our local ministry fits into the broader work of the Reformed Episcopal Church.
Saint Paul’s at the 118th Synod
This year, Saint Paul’s Anglican Church is excited to participate in the 118th Synod of the Diocese of Mid-America, to be held October 8–10, 2025, at Good Shepherd REC in Tyler, Texas.
As a newly received parish in the REC, this will be our first opportunity to take part in Synod and witness how our diocese gathers for worship, governance, and mission. It’s a meaningful milestone for our community.
Want to Learn More?
If you’d like to learn more about Synod, how it works, or how you can attend, please reach out. Whether you’re a confirmed member, curious observer, or someone discerning a deeper role in our parish, Synod offers a chance to engage with the wider Anglican and Reformed Episcopal Church.
Let us continue to pray for the unity and strength of our diocese as we look ahead to this important gathering.
The 118th Synod of the Diocese of Mid-America will be held Wednesday, October 8 – Friday, October 10, 2025 at Good Shepherd REC in Tyler, TX. The schedule will be similar to last year’s Synod, beginning mid-afternoon on Wednesday and concluding midday on Friday.
Travel:
For those traveling by air, Tyler does have a regional airport, but you might be better off flying into Dallas Love Field (DAL) or DFW International and renting a car. It is about a two-hour drive from Dallas to Tyler.
Hotel:
We have a block of rooms already reserved at the Hilton Garden Inn in Tyler. The rate is $124.00 per night, including breakfast. You can book your room now by clicking the following link: https://group.hiltongardeninn.com/49jfph
HILTON GARDEN INN TYLER
220 Grande Boulevard
Tyler Texas 75702
(903) 509-1166
