Assembly or synod? - some theological considerations

Abstract

Various groups and constituencies in the Church in Ireland have been engaging with the issue of renewal for several decades. This has taken many forms, for example, extensive projects in adult faith formation, assemblies and chapters of religious women and men, diocesan assemblies of clergy and more recently, listening exercises among many dioceses, representing all members of the Church. There have been numerous other groups of people passionate about renewal who have been meeting and discussing ways forward. Despite all of the energy and enthusiasm involved the need for serious renewal remains. It is time now to consider how greater accountability might be introduced so that the Church, at all levels,would harness more wisely the diminishing resources at its disposal. Here, some considerations are offered, which might contribute to that end.