Courtney McGrailDear Editor, Congratulations to Bishop Brendan Leahy and all those in the Diocese of Limerick for taking the initiative to hold a diocesan synod (‘Limerick synod delegates gear up for the main event’ IC 04/12/2014).
I hope the delegates can arrive at some conclusions in their attempt to lay out a path to enable the Church there to meet the many challenges that it faces in the future.
Perhaps this is something we could see replicated in other dioceses around the country. This initiative could even lead to an eventual national synod for the Irish Church.
The Eucharistic Congress in Dublin in 2012 gave the Irish Church a great injection of positivity and enthusiasm. I would love to see another platform being offered where Catholics can feel not only listened to and part of the decision making process, but also part of a real Christian community.
One concern I would voice is that synods of this kind have the potential to easily become ‘talking shops’ where nothing gets done.
Delegates should follow up on whatever decisions are made at the Limerick synod and ensure the agreed measures are implemented.
Action speaks louder than words.
Yours etc.,
Jonathan Breen,
Raheny,
Dublin 5.