Invited to address the General Synod at the end of the morning session, Dr Philip Giddings of the Church of England brought the greetings of the Archbishop of Canterbury to the Synod and spoke of the importance of the clergy and laity coming together to debate, listen and learn from each other.  Referring to the similarities between the Church of England and the Church of Ireland, Dr Giddings told members that the Church of England was currently addressing the challenges of contributing to the common good, growing the church both numerically and in terms of spirituality, and reenvisioning ministry.
 
The Rev Paul Kingston, President of the Methodist Church in Ireland, addressed the Synod at the opening of the afternoon session, bringing the greetings of the Methodist Church to the Synod and speaking of his experience of cordial relationships with the members of the Church of Ireland throughout the years of his service.  Mr Kingston echoed the sentiments of Dr Giddings, speaking of the importance of conferences as an opportunity for mutual listening, and made particular reference to the reports of the Commission on Minstry and the Covenant Council.