Gentle Reader,
Synod: Sometimes used interchangeably with council, but usually meaning a gathering of clergy (and often congregational members) in a particular area. Smaller than a council. Deals with local business. Not seen as authoritative for the entire church.
Related Concepts and/or Examples
Northwest District, Church of the Nazarene – a modern-day example
Synodal Letter – from Tertullian, an early Christian teacher
Church Polity – the structure and organization of a denomination
Synod of Dort – centuries later, still a point of contention
For all entries in the 31 Days of Feasting on Theology series, go here.