synod

noun

1. An ecclesiastic council or meeting to consult on church matters.

   “Addressing a number of previously taboo topics, this synod could result in several liberalizing reforms, though there is no guarantee that it will produce anything at all.”

2. An administrative division of churches, either the entire denomination, as in the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, or a mid-level division (middle judicatory, district) as in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
3. An assembly or council having civil authority (formal); a legislative body.

   “It hath in solemn synods been decreed.”

   “A third part of the Gods, in synod met / Their deities to assert; who, while they feel / Vigour divine within them, can allow / Omnipotence to none.”

   “Parent of Gods and Men, propitious Jove! / And you bright ſynod of the Pow'rs above; / On this my ſon your gracious gifts beſtow; / Grant him to live, and great in arms to grow, [...]”

4. A conjunction of two or more of the heavenly bodies.