Change of Location - We listened!
We have taken careful note of the feedback you provided regarding the venue and accommodations during recent synods. In response, we have dedicated considerable effort to addressing your suggestions and concerns. We have spent the time since Synod last year exploring various locations throughout Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Given the vastness of our Diocese it is understandable that no single location will perfectly suit everyone's needs.
Nonetheless, we continue to be committed to thoroughly exploring all parts of our Diocese in our planning endeavours.
We reached out to venues in Cape Breton, Prince Edward Island, and mainland Nova Scotia. Unfortunately, some were well beyond our budget. Nevertheless, we successfully secured a location that has effectively tackled many of the concerns and issues raised by you, the Synod Delegates. St. Francis of Xavier (St. FX) University in Antigonish has been selected to host our upcoming Synod in May 2025. While cost has been a central consideration in our exploration process, we have also prioritized addressing the diverse concerns raised: important items like menu, room temperature, parking accessibility, and general accommodations. Although there will be a slight increase in accommodation costs, we have been able to secure different cost-saving measures, such as complimentary parking. Moreover, the advantages of the venue at St. FX are notable. Meeting spaces are conveniently situated on one level and both the Chapel for the opening service and the accommodations (Governors Hall) are located just across the parking lot from our meeting space. In addition, each room in Governors Hall has a private washroom.
Accommodations (Located adjacent to meeting space)
Governors Hall $116 - Single Room (Private washroom)
$180 - Double Room (Suite Style, 2 separate bedrooms, shared kitchenette and washroom)
Registration for accommodations will be facilitated through St. FX, with information set to be
circulated in February of 2025.
Meals (Morrison Hall)
Meals will be served buffet-style in Morrison Hall, offering a wide array of food options to cater to various preferences and to accommodate food allergies and sensitivities. From salads to pizzas, comfort foods to global cuisine, there is something for everyone, including options for plant-based and vegetarian diets. The café located on the main floor of the Meeting space will be open during our meeting times. And for those craving Starbucks, there is one conveniently located on campus. Meals will be offered as follows: Friday Supper, Saturday Breakfast and Lunch, and Sunday Brunch. On Saturday evening, there will be sufficient time available to find a restaurant in the area for dinner. We will also compile a list of area restaurants and locations for your convenience. All those who wish to partake in one or more of the meals are asked to pay a flat rate of $30 (no increase since last Synod) toward food costs, payable during On-line Registration or at Check-In. It is not possible to join the meal program while you are at Synod – signing up for the meal program must be completed on the Synod Registration Form.
Cost-Sharing
We are encouraging attendees to consider traveling and rooming together, not only to mitigate costs but also to reduce our collective carbon footprint.
Thank you,
Dawn Purcell, Executive Secretary of Synod