The Magazine

That change in atmosphere can often help change the tone of debate. There were distinct signs of grumpiness on the day we started, but it was striking how that gave way to a much ‘gentler-with-each-other’ approach throughout the weekend. I’m sure the setting contributed to that.

One of the key items of business was to do with a couple of changes to Canon Law in relation to funeral services. Previous generations had not thought it right to have the funeral service used both for those who were not baptised and for those who had taken their own lives. The logic for the first was that the funeral service was designed for those who were (however loosely) members of the church and that baptism is what makes you a member. The logic for the second was that the taking of your own life was seen as a major (‘mortal’) sin with no possibility of repenting and therefore receiving forgiveness; this would in effect puts you out of the church.

In reality (and thank God), most of us have not worked strictly to either of these rules for many years: God’s grace and mercy are not, and never have been, limited by our human perceptions and feelings – nor by the parameters of earthly existence. So, as is quite often the case, General Synod was playing catch-up. There was a good and compassionate debate and, I think, unanimous agreement that Her Majesty should be petitioned for an amendment to the relevant Canon.

One of the speeches made the following point: “inevitably distress affects the state of everyone’s mental health”; someone else pointed out (I think it was our own Caroline Herbert) that whatever the “soundness of mind”, compassion and care will be the hallmarks of God’s response and need therefore to be visible in the church. The whole debate was marked by the increase in understanding that our states of mind are to do with health and illness and that all of us will have times when that is rocked a little. Both Prince Harry’s and Prince William’s roles in this have been immensely helpful.

Of course, recognising this does not let us off taking responsibility for trying to ensure that the way we lead our lives helps rather than hinders the quality of our mental health. Circumstances, and indeed our own characters, will dictate a great deal, but there are certain measures we can take ourselves.

We can try and make sure we have enough rest and relaxation built into our lives. Modern western life can militate in other directions – and church life is not exempt! Nonetheless, holding on to the space and time to relax is critical. So too is being true to ourselves – not just the selves we think we are, but also the selves that God intends. This will involve time and attention to what God is saying to us, as well as an honest rejoicing in whom we are. I think that all points to three things: Rest; Enjoyment and Prayer.