Synod 2021 - 2023
For a synodal Church
communion | participation | mission
Responding to an invitation from Pope Francis
The invitation from Pope Francis to take part in the Diocesan Phase of the synod:
For a synodal Church, has given our Diocese of Down and Connor an opportunity to be attentive to the work of the Holy Spirit, to experience Synodality, and to reflect on our mission as we emerge from the pandemic and make plans for the future. The synodal journey has been one of learning, encounter, and authentic dialogue. Our encounters, both in person and in writing during the Diocesan Phase of the synod were marked by honest sharing.
The report that has been developed following the synodal moments is available for everyone in the Diocese to read and consider. There is great diversity of thought and lived experience across our Diocese and it is our sincere hope that people will find reflected in the report their own thoughts and insights as well as those of their sisters and brothers in Christ.
As a Church we recognise the need for synodality as it empowers us, the People of God, to dream about the church we are called to be, to make hopes flourish, to stimulate trust, to bind up wounds, to weave new and deeper relationships, to learn from one another, to build bridges, to enlighten minds, warm hearts and restore strength to our hands for our common mission.[1]
As a Diocese there are actions that we can undertake, guided by what we have heard from our people, in each one of whom the Holy Spirit dwells. This Diocesan report should not be viewed as a completed piece of work but part of a synodal process that is in and of itself a new beginning: A journey of growing authentically towards the communion and mission that God calls the Church to live out in the third millennium.[2]
[1] Preparatory Document For a Synodal Church, 32
[2] Vademecum for the Synod on Synodality 1.3
Sunday Stroll
The word synod draws its meaning from two Greek words, which when put together imply ‘journeying’ or ‘walking’ together. What better way to approach our Synodal moments than with a good dander! In the beauty of creation we will undertake a series of listening events where we walk along together, listening to people about their experiences, concerns and hopes for the Church. There will be a chance for a coffee on the route. The experience will be captured in photo and as a narrative from those who listened.
Sunday 27th March 3pm – Quoile River
Sunday 3rd April 3pm - Divis
Sunday 10th April 3pm – Whiterocks Beach
Youth Consultation
The Diocese is currently developing its strategy for youth ministry. A strategy for youth must begin with young people. The synod allows us to take the time to hear from young people informing both the synodal process and our strategy for youth. One of the most recent synods that took place in the Church was a synod on youth. After that synod came a document called ‘Christus Vivit’ - Christ is Alive. Guided by ‘Christ is Alive’ we will have youth consultations engaging with school pupils, students and members of parish youth groups and centres. If you want to know more e-mail synod@downandconnor.org
