General Synod has the power and influence to make laws (called 'measures'), shape the policies and practices of the Church, and oversee certain budgets and appointments. It is elected every five years (often referred to as a quinquennium). The Synod usually meets twice a year (a working week in London in February, a long weekend in York in July) and occasionally in London for three days, including at the start of each 'quinquennium'.

The Synod has three Houses:

1. House of Bishops - senior bishops of the Church
2. House of Clergy - elected priests and deacons
3. House of Laity - elected lay (non-ordained) members

Elections to the General Synod 2026

General Synod membership elections take place every five years. Elections for membership of the General Synod from 2026 to 2031 will take place in the early autumn of this year.

• Clergy members are elected by other clergy in their diocese
• Lay members are elected by the lay membership on deanery synods.
• Every diocese has its own elections.

So while ordinary churchgoers don't vote directly in most cases, they influence the process through church representation structures. You can find out more on the Church of England website.