The term ‘cyndicate’ denotes two things. Firstly, it refers to the word ‘syndicate’. A syndicate is made up of an amalgamation of diverse individuals coming together for a common purpose. It is thus a specific type of group that shares a common vision while simultaneously acknowledging difference and diversity.

Secondly the term refers to the word ‘cynic’. In contrast to the way in which the word is used today this word today actually refers to the first major assault upon so called ‘civilised values’. The original cynics were a loose community of individuals who believed that what was being propagated as ‘moral’ and ‘civilised’ by the establishment was often corrupt and self-interested. The cynics (most closely associated with Diogenes) were wondering sages who gave up material wealth to travelled the land and question the very things everyone else would take for granted (often teaching in cryptic and controversial ways). The greatest misjudgement made against the cynics was that their attack of dominant moral values equalled an attack upon all moral values. By looking closer it becomes clear that they loved morality so much they were compelled to attack societies crude and oppressive versions of it, often suffering greatly as a result.

Consequently our playful use of the word ‘Cyndicate’ refers to our makeup as a group of disparate individuals who question religion precisely because we love religion so much, questioning our understanding of God only because we love God and we critiquing our views of God’s kingdom because of our deep passion and longing for it. Our cynicism is thus the outworking of prayers, tears and a passion for the incoming of God. Hence, alongside the great Miester Eckhart we can say, ‘I pray therefore, that God rid me of God’.