Former Bishop of Raphoe acclaims Synod document on Church future

Bishop Alan McGuckian SJ, the former Bishop of Raphoe, has commended the decision of Pope Francis to publish a document from the 16th General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops in the Vatican.

The Synod concluded at the weekend and Bishop McGuckian was accompanied by Bishop Brendan Leahy of Limerick to the Vatican.

They attended on behalf of the Irish Bishops’ Conference and the final document’s imminent publication has been met with welcome.

This Synod on Synodality was attended by Church representatives from around the world on the theme: ‘For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission’.

The month-long gathering included 368 delegates of lay women and men, clergy and religious orders.

The task of the second session was to complete the discernment begun at the first session in 2023 and offered the result to Pope Francis, who wasresponsible under the Apostolic Constitution Episcopalis Communio for its implementation.

Recommended changes in the document include an overhauling of the training for priests, a larger portion of lay involvement in selecting bishops and an expansion of women’s ministries. The document also proposes that Church law be altered and that transparency and accountability is mandated.

"Following our meeting here in October 2023, it has been a privilege to return to the Synod on Synodality, reconnecting with familiar faces and building upon the vital work we began together,” Bishop McGuckian said. 

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“While a month at a Synod may seem a daunting or even tiring commitment, the incredible diversity of people I have had the chance to meet and work alongside has made this experience not only energising but deeply enriching.  Their dedication and perspectives have renewed my hope and commitment to the Church’s journey.

“The concept of baptismal ministry - acknowledging the ministry or service that all baptised people can participate in - was profoundly encouraging.  This Synod has really inspired us to embrace the gifts of the Spirit, that are present in each individual, as we journey forward together in faith."

Bishop McGuckian has been the Bishop of Down and Connor since last April.

Sister Mary Teresa Barron from Donegal also attended the Synod/ Sr Mary, OLA, is the daughter of parents from Ballintra who was educated in Drumoghill NS and Loreto Secondary School in Letterkenny, and is President of the International Union of Superiors General.