Synod: Assembly, Consultation and Governance in the Church

A synod is a formal assembly of church leaders convened to consult on doctrine, governance and pastoral direction. Most major traditions govern through synods; an autonomous church (self-governing/independent) is not governed by a synod.

The synod has its roots in the earliest apostolic gatherings, most notably the Council of Jerusalem. Over the centuries, it developed into local, national, and ecumenical councils that affirmed church teaching and guided the church through times of change.

Many denominations convene synods — often referred to as assemblies — made up of both clergy and lay representatives. Serving as the governing bodies of their churches, these synods typically hold authority over matters of doctrine, liturgy, and church order. In weighing these matters, members bring different perspectives, and open discussion gives the assembly a wider and more balanced view — yet every conclusion must rest on the Bible rather than on opinion alone. An autonomous, self-governing church, by contrast, stands apart and is not governed by a synod.

While discussion of different views gives a wider and more balanced perspective, the Bible must be the foundation of doctrine. Synods exist to serve the Word, not to stand above it: their conclusions carry authority only insofar as they are drawn from Scripture.

Prayerful study of the Bible, together with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, keeps a synod's decisions anchored in truth and guards the church against drifting toward merely human opinion.