On 15 and 16 May last, the National Synodal Team gathered for a two-day discernment retreat at Dalgan Park, Navan, Co Meath, a place steeped in missionary history and where the beauty of its grounds inspire contemplation and reflection. The gathering marked a further step in Ireland’s synodal journey; one of prayerful reflection, sacred listening, and communal discernment.
Over the course of the two days, the team entered deeply into the wealth of feedback from the spring gatherings held by dioceses, religious congregations, lay groups, and ecclesial movements across the country. The days unfolded through a rhythm of prayer, shared silence, and spiritual conversation, providing the necessary space for the team to be attentive to the voice of the Spirit echoing through the submissions.
The process began with a deep reading of the submissions and an open sharing of first impressions. Participants then set out on Emmaus-style walks in pairs, echoing the Gospel story, listening to one another about where hope was felt in what had been read or heard. These walks helped uncover not just data, but signs of life and grace. From there, the team engaged in a deeper discernment, asking: What priorities are emerging? Where is the Spirit inviting us to go? This led into Conversations in the Spirit and reverent silences, spaces where the team sought to hear God not in the noise, but in the sound of sheer silence (cf. 1 Kings 19:12).
The days were anchored by prayer and Eucharist. There was a strong awareness of the responsibility to faithfully reflect the priorities, concerns, and hopes of the People of God in Ireland. Attention was given not only to what was said, but to how it was said; to the longing for a Church that is more inclusive, missionary, and Christ-centred. With the guidance of facilitator, Jim Deeds, the team explored proposals for the shape of the Pre-Synodal Assembly to be held on 18 October at the Kilkenny Convention Centre and what may be offered back to the People of God in Ireland as the next step in this unfolding journey.
To read more about the Synodal Pathway in Ireland visit www.synod.ie.
ENDS
Thank you to Julieann Moran, General Secretary for the Synodal Pathway of the Catholic Church in Ireland for providing this story.
