Diocesan Conference

About the Diocesan Conference

Diocesan conference is an annual gathering where clergy and elected lay representatives meet with the bishop to pray, discuss, and make decisions about the life, mission, and governance of the diocese.

What happens at a diocesan conference

Worship and prayer to ground the gathering spiritually
Reports on diocesan strategy, finances, ministry developments
Debate and voting on motions, resolutions, and policy
Elections to diocesan committees and provincial bodies
Keynote sessions or themed reflections (e.g., values, holiness, mission)
Community building through shared prayer, discussion, and Eucharist

Diocesan Conferences:

Give voice and representation to clergy and laity
Shape the future direction of the diocese
Ensure transparent governance
Strengthen shared identity and mission
Connect local churches with the wider church

2026- Prayerful Service

If you are a Ministry Area Leader, or Lay Chair and are yet to receive registration forms for conference please email the Head of Communications (nicolabennett@cinw.org.uk) as soon as possible.

Please note that in keeping with the theme of Franciscan simplicity

LUNCH WILL NOT BE PROVIDED

by the Diocese. Attendees are therefore advised to

bring their own provisions.

It should also be noted that there are very limited facilities in the immediate area for purchasing lunch.

Delegates are also being encouraged to bring their own travel mugs/bottles, in order to help reduce the amount of waste generated by the conference.

Full joining instructions for the online conference, and necessary papers will be sent in due course.

In the meantime, please do reach out to

nicolabennett@cinw.org.uk

if you have any questions.