John Durell

Synod Clerk & Ecumenical Officer

The Ecumenical Officer works through the synod ecumenical committee and other members of synod, and also with the Ecumenical Officers of other Churches. The United Reformed Church is committed to the goal of visible unity of all God's people, and looks for opportunities to work collaboratively with other Christians wherever possible.

More than 10% of the Synod's congregations are Local Ecumenical Partnerships, and nearly all our churches are members of a local Churches Together group or similar body. The Ecumenical Officer gives practical support and encouragement in strengthening these relationships, and in expressing our ecumenical commitment through the newly-formed regional body, North East Christian Churches Together (NECCT).

As Synod Clerk, John works with the Office staff and other colleaguesto keep member churches in touch with what is going on in the Synod. His tasks include responsibility for communication through the Synod website and regular mailings, as well as personal contact wherever possible.

A native of the Channel Islands, John has ministered in both the south and the north of England. After ten years in Sunderland he and his wife moved a few miles up the Wear to Durham City. They have two children, both living at a distance; and they enjoy days off walking in the countryside.