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Dictionary

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Bishop

‘Bishop’ comes from the Greek word for ‘overseer’. So a bishop is a senior Christian minister authorised to have oversight for God’s people. As well as duties given to deacons and priests, bishops confirm and ordain.

Diocese

‘Diocese’ refers to the geographical territory in which a bishop exercises oversight. The Church in Wales is divided into six dioceses each with its own cathedral in which is housed the cathedra (the bishop’s ‘chair’ or ‘throne’).

Prayer

Prayer sustains our human relationship with God and may involve words (formal or informal) or be silent. Prayer can involve adoration (‘I love you’), confession (‘sorry’), thanksgiving and supplication (‘please’).

Home CULTURE DIOCESAN CONFERENCE

DIOCESAN CONFERENCE

The Diocesan Conference is the main decision-making body of the Diocese of Monmouth. It brings together all clergy under the age of 70 and elected lay representatives from every Ministry Area, with the Bishop of Monmouth serving as President.

This annual gathering is a vital expression of our diocesan culture—rooted in shared leadership, open dialogue, and a commitment to shaping the Church’s future together.

A Culture of Participation and Purpose

The Diocesan Conference is more than a governance meeting—it’s a living expression of our diocesan culture. It reflects our values of:

  • Love – through respectful listening and care for one another’s perspectives
  • Generosity – in the sharing of ideas, time, and service
  • Joy – in gathering as a diocesan family to worship and reflect
  • Humility – in learning from one another and seeking the common good
  • Courage – in addressing challenges and making bold decisions
  • Integrity – in transparent processes and accountable leadership

Conference is a space where we live out these values together, shaping a Church that is faithful, inclusive, and forward-looking.

What Happens at Conference?

Held each November, the Diocesan Conference is a half-day event that blends worship, governance, and reflection. The format typically includes:

  • Worship led by a Ministry Area to begin the day in prayer and unity
  • Reports on the strategic and financial life of the diocese
  • Questions and discussion on any aspect of diocesan business
  • Motions brought forward for debate and decision
  • Elections to diocesan and provincial committees (voted on in advance, with results announced at Conference)
  • A themed session, often featuring a keynote speaker or interactive activity

Recent themes have included Welcome (2023) and Our Values (2024)—each reinforcing the culture we are building together.

Why It Matters

Conference is where the whole diocese has a voice. It’s where we:

  • Make key decisions about our shared life
  • Reflect on our challenges and opportunities
  • Celebrate progress and renew our vision
  • Elect representatives who will shape the Church’s direction

Recent Decisions

Some of the motions passed in recent years include:

  • 2022: Removal of age restrictions for lay members of Conference
  • 2023: Renewal of our companion relationship with the Diocese of the Highveld
  • 2023: Adoption of a new Environmental Policy to support our Eco Church commitments
  • 2024: Establishment of the Monmouth Diocesan Council, a major step in governance reform