General Synod convening to debate and make decisions

“For me, faith and action are connected,” says Erik Vikström, chair of the General Synod. This becomes obvious during the General Synod, where representatives of the Church of Sweden’s membership gather to debate and make decisions that affect people’s everyday lives and the future of the Church.

During its first session, the committees processed 89 motions, five communications and three reports on activities. This work has resulted in 68 reports with proposals for decisions.

Among this year’s motions, several issues have sparked engagement and debate. One of them is motion 2026:76 Weddings and marriage. The debate on the motion will begin on Monday at around 3 pm. Decisions will then be made on Tuesday.

“I am looking forward to an open and engaged General Synod,” says Erik Vikström. “In an era when harsh words and rapid shifts towards hostility are a regular feature of the broader public debate, I hope that our work will be characterised by respectful conversations, attentiveness and a willingness to understand one another.”

The General Synod will conclude with a Eucharist service on 18 November at 2:30 pm in Uppsala Cathedral. The service will be led by Bishop Ulrica Fritzson, Skara Diocese.

International guests

This year, guests at the General Synod will include Bishop Imad Haddad and Deacon Rana Zeidan from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land.

The bishop will deliver a greeting from his church, and the two guests will provide insights into the situation for Christians in Palestine, among others. The proportion of Christians in Palestine has decreased from around 20 percent in 1948 to less than two percent today. They will also speak about the church’s work for a sustainable and just peace and its mission to be there for people in a region marked by protracted conflict and war.

Accreditation for journalists and photographers

Journalists and photographers who wish to cover the General Synod on site must obtain accreditation no later than 12 noon on Friday 13 November. Email your name, editorial office, mobile number and which days you wish to attend to press@svenskakyrkan.se.

A visible name badge must be worn during the meeting. This can be collected from the reception desk for the General Synod (mötesbyrån) at Uppsala Konsert & Kongress.

Press officers on site will help to arrange contact with members and guests for comments and interviews.

Press photos

High-resolution press images from the General Synod will be uploaded on an ongoing basis to IKON, the image bank of the Church of Sweden. No login is required. The image byline must be included when photographs are published.