The Church of Ireland is governed through a system of representative bodies and councils, with the General Synod serving as the supreme law-making authority.

The General Synod includes elected clergy, lay members, and bishops, and is responsible for matters of church governance, policy, doctrine, and liturgy.

Diocesan synods, representing each diocese, also play a crucial role in governance of Saint Mary’s Cathedral. At the parish level, Select Vestries are elected by parishioners to oversee local affairs. The members of the Select Vestry are the charity trustees for the parish, and it is their responsibility to oversee the fabric, finance and furnishings of the Cathedral. They also have responsibilities for child safeguarding and other statutory legislation.

Interior of an old stone church featuring wooden pews with red cushions, an altar in the center, stained glass windows in the background, and floral arrangements on either side of the aisle.

Saint Mary’s Cathedral maintains the highest governance standards. We use policies which follow current legislation, guidance, and recognised good practice. Our policies and procedures are specifically tailored to those who participate in the events, services, or activities which we provide.

Interior of a historic church showing rows of wooden chairs with dark blue cushions, stone pillars, and arched ceilings. A decorative baptismal font stands in the center aisle, and a chandelier hangs from the ceiling. Stained glass windows illuminate the altar area in the background.

Safety at the Cathedral

We take seriously our responsibility to protect and safeguard the welfare of all those entrusted to the Cathedral’s care, and it is important to us that all visitors to Saint Mary’s Cathedral know and feel that their value, dignity, safety and wellbeing is respected.

As we carry out our work with children, young people, and vulnerable adults, it is the responsibility of the whole Cathedral community to ensure the safeguarding of every individual. With this in mind, we select, supervise, and train all those who carry responsibility at the Cathedral and all staff and volunteers receive regular safeguarding training and support.