Voting has got underway for new members of the Church of England's General Synod.
Members of the Church of England have begun casting their votes for the next five-year sitting of Synod by postal ballot.
There are two elections taking place in diocesan-wide constituencies, one for members of the House of Clergy and the other for members of the House of Laity.
With all diocesan bishops being members by right, the remaining spaces in the House of Bishops are filled by provincial-wide elections of area and suffragan bishops.
The Synod acts as the Church's parliamentary body, passing legislation and regulating relations with other churches.
It is also responsible for approving liturgy and doctrine, as well as the Church's annual budget, and considers the Church's position on issues of religious or public interest.
General Synod sits for a fixed term of five years and each Quinquennium is opened by the Queen.
The new Synod will meet for the first time in November in Church House, Westminster.
Electors have until October 8 to cast their vote using the single transferable vote.
News
The Church needs to watch Channel 4's John Smyth documentary
There is much more to reflect on in these two hours, presented in a very different way from previous communications, and a year later.
Myanmar junta orders an early Christmas
Locals are reportedly unhappy with the decree but know that failure to comply could lead to arrest.
BBC chooses Bradford Cathedral for Christmas Day broadcast
The BBC has chosen Bradford Cathedral as the location for its live Christmas Day service in 2025, coinciding with its status as UK City of Culture and placing the historic cathedral firmly in the Christmas morning spotlight.
Presbyterian Church in Ireland under investigation amid safeguarding concerns
The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has launched an inquiry into the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.