WAC sees positive and negative signs in Synod.
WE ARE CHURCH IRELAND welcomes the format with over 100 questions set out for
the Synod in October 2023.
The most important discussions will center on how Synodality will be defined: Hopefully
as true co-responsibilty and participation of all on a common mission and NOT as a
token exercise with the hierarchy alone making all the decisions.
There are several positive signs: The inclusion of 54 women with voting rights; the
inclusion of lay people with voting rights; discussions in small groups at tables.
There are however several negative signs: The absence of any openly LGBT persons;
the decision not to mention Women Priests, despite this issue featuring highly in the
global synodal process; all attending have been selected exclusively by the hierarchy;
those voting at the Synod will be overwhelmingly clergy.
We applaud Pope Francis’ determination to build a humble, listening church of
encounter and dialogue where what affects all should be decided by all!
Colm Holmes
Spokesperson