Decision of the General Synod 2024

During the General Synod, 73 motions and six communications were discussed. The decisions made include introducing a percentage threshold for elections to the General Synod.

The General Synod has also decided that the Central Board of the Church of Sweden may allocate extra funds to Act Church of Sweden if necessary when the Swedish Government makes changes to the focus of Sida’s development cooperation.

The General Synod has also tasked the Central Board with producing materials with more in-depth information on different wedding traditions, including giving away the bride. The Central Board is also tasked with continuing to work theologically on the umbrella concept of LGBTQIA+, as well as on polyamory.

After a close vote, the General Synod decided to appoint a commission of inquiry into the role of the Church of Sweden as a cultural actor, and to propose measures to secure the future need for resources.

Finally, the General Synod issued a statement based on this year’s theme of The Church in the Public Space. It sets the direction for the Church of Sweden’s role in society and the public debate.

The General Synod is the highest decision-making body of the Church of Sweden, deciding on issues common to the entire Church of Sweden. This year, 73 motions and 6 communications were considered.

Shortcut to some of the decisions:

Kl 2024:5 Giving away the bride at weddings

Kl 2024:04 The Church of Sweden and LGBTQ issues

O 2024:1 Electoral issues (with percentage threshold and equalisation mandate)

E 2024:1 Operations and finances (with funding from Act Church of Sweden)

Eu 2024:07 Realising religious freedom in a multi-faith society

TU 2024:01 Ban on disclosing information relating to the emergency preparedness of the Church of Sweden

SK 2024:10 Cultural commission of inquiry

Links

The General Synod

All decisions

About the General Synod

The General Synod is the highest decision-making body of the Church of Sweden and its 251 members are elected by church members.

It makes decisions on matters concerning the Church Ordinance (the Church of Sweden’s regulatory framework) and other issues of importance to the entire Church of Sweden, such as the Book of Worship and the Hymn Book. Other examples include the church’s organisation, belonging to the Church of Sweden and the church’s ordained ministry.

However, the General Synod cannot make decisions on matters that are the responsibility of parishes or dioceses.