The United Reformed Church (URC) is delighted to announce that the Revd Paul Robinson has been nominated to serve as the next Moderator of the Southern Synod.
The post has been vacant since the Revd Bridget Banks had to retire early in June 2025 on health grounds.
The Southern Synod has around 140 URC and united churches, those with Methodist, Baptist or other ecumenical partners. The area of the Synod includes South London, Kent, Surrey and Sussex. Its offices are located at East Croydon URC in Croydon.
Paul has been Minister of the United Church in Rhyl since his ordination in 2011. Recently, he has also supported other URC churches in North Wales and in the National Synod of Wales, Paul has served most recently as Convenor of the North Wales Regional Pastoral Committee.
On a national level, Paul is a former member and Convenor of the URC’s Children and Youth Work Committee.
Paul said: “It is with deep humility that I accept the nomination to serve as Moderator of Southern Synod. It is a great honour to serve God in this new role, and I look forward to journeying with the synod alongside the Holy Spirit as, together, we seek to be the church of Christ.”
Alongside his ministry Paul enjoys choral singing, playing the piano and organ, trying to get a personal best at his local Parkrun, and staying seated during the rollercoaster of supporting Manchester United FC.
The Revd Dr John Bradbury, URC General Secretary, said: “I’m delighted that Paul has accepted the call to serve as Moderator of the Southern Synod. He brings a wealth of experience of ministry both locally, and within the wider Church which will serve the Synod well. He brings passion for the gospel, a pastoral sensitivity, a deep sense of the body of Christ as a place of unity in diversity and will be a great gift to the Synod and the wider United Reformed Church.”
The appointment, once confirmed by the General Assembly of the URC, which meets in early July, will begin later this year.
The Revd Russell Furley-Smith, Synod Council Convenor, said: “The Southern Synod is delighted to receive the nomination of the Revd Paul Robinson as its new Moderator. We look forward to sharing in his ministry as we face some exciting challenges and opportunities.
“A new Moderator plays a vital role in guiding and encouraging the Synod as it seeks to live out its mission in today’s world. Through prayerful leadership, collaboration and vision, they help congregations and communities grow in faith, deepen relationships and respond to the needs of the wider community.
“By working alongside Ministers, Elders, volunteers and members, the Moderator can inspire unity and shared purpose along with helping the Synod discern new opportunities for mission while remaining rooted in the Gospel, enabling it to grow as a faithful and relevant presence in the life of our local communities.
“We are pleased that Paul will journey with us, offering us his wisdom and vision.”