Proceedings at the General Synod of the Church of Ireland begin at 11 a.m. today in the Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, Dublin, with Dr Robin Eames's presidential address shortly afterwards.
The early afternoon will be taken up with debate on the standing committee report dealing with Drumcree, support for the Jubilee 2000 coalition, and discussion on the Church of Ireland and the Northern Ireland Civic Forum.
Probably the most important debate of the day will begin between 4.30 and 5 p.m., on the report of the sub-committee on sectarianism, which has been two years in preparation. It redefines the church's relationship with the loyal orders and the Masonic Order and considers the display of flags and emblems on church property.
It looks at education as a way of dealing with sectarianism, investigates the church's constitution, formularies and articles in the context of the contemporary experience of sectarianism, and examines the church's history to identify ways in which this has contributed to bigotry and sectarianism.
It also examines the issue of bishops' powers where the good of the church and community is concerned.