Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell Brings Hopeful Vision to General Synod Through Faith, Unity, and Tradition

In a heartfelt address at the July 2025 General Synod in York, Archbishop Stephen Cottrell shared a vision of hope rooted in ancient Christian practices and the evolving diversity within the Church of England. Speaking on the feast day of St Benedict, he emphasized the importance of spiritual discipline, unity, and a renewed commitment to Christian teaching.

Referring to recent research, including the Bible Society’s Quiet Revival report, the Archbishop noted a rising spiritual curiosity among younger generations. He said this moment calls for the Church to become “a school for disciples” — where people are formed through prayer, scripture, and the sacraments. Churches that combine historic depth with openness to diversity, he said, are seeing meaningful growth.

Archbishop Cottrell also addressed the topic of assisted dying, affirming the Church’s continued opposition to the proposed Terminally Ill (End of Life) Bill. He stressed the Christian belief in the dignity of every human life and thanked fellow bishops in the House of Lords for their principled resistance to the legislation.

On the contentious Living in Love and Faith process, the Archbishop acknowledged ongoing disagreement within the Church but urged members not to give up on one another. “We do not let go of each other,” he said, emphasizing that shared baptism and shared hope must remain the foundation of unity, even without full consensus.

Beyond doctrinal debates, Cottrell highlighted the Church’s broader social witness, including climate action and reparative justice. He praised the Church Commissioners for their leadership in ethical investing and spoke positively about Project Spire, a £100 million initiative aimed at addressing historical injustices tied to the transatlantic slave trade.

One issue not on the Synod’s agenda — a motion on Palestine — drew concern. Archdeacon Stewart Fyfe of Carlisle and Bishop Robert Innes raised questions about whether failing to debate the topic signals a lack of care for Palestinian Christians. Synod leaders acknowledged the urgency and committed to further consideration.

Concluding his remarks, Archbishop Cottrell reminded the Church that this work is not easy — and not finished — but it is necessary. Rooted in faith and guided by hope, he called for a Church that remains committed to its calling in both tradition and transformation.

Source: Church Times