On the 3rd of March, I had the pleasure of attending the Mount Merrion Parish “Synodal Pathway” gathering along with Ms. Fitzgerald. This was a meeting organised in order for the parish to come together as a community and discuss the joys of being in the Church, as well as some areas in which the church could improve.
These “Synodal Pathway” gatherings are taking place in parishes across the globe, and our opinions and ideas as the Mount Merrion community will be shared in the Dublin Diocesan gathering which will eventually culminate with the Synod of Bishops dedicated to the theme “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission” at the Vatican in October 2023.
It was a very relaxed gathering, where scripture was read and prayers were said; the main focus was one of reflection, where everyone was given their time to speak without interruption. There was no argument or debate as the Church accepts that everyone may have had a different, but equally valid, experience. It was very interesting to take part in this type of discussion, and I found that I was much more attentive and understanding to those in my group than if the gathering had taken the form of a dialogue. We were split into groups of around six, which meant that everyone had plenty of time to speak, though it was encouraged that you speak as much or as little as you see fit.
It was fascinating to hear the different perspectives of everyone in my group. I especially enjoyed listening to their favourite aspects of the Church: the music, the celebrations of First Holy Communion and weddings, and the general sense of warmth and community were a few that came up again and again. Some shared very personal memories, which were very touching to hear.
Overall, this was a wonderful gathering and I felt honoured to attend on behalf of the school. I hope that the Sacred Heart Ethos, particularly the goals of faith and community, will be strengthened and evolved by way of these gatherings across the world and their subsequent manifestation in our local parishes. There will be another “Synodal Pathway” gathering taking place on Monday 4th of April from 7-9 p.m. in the Mount Merrion Parish community centre, and all members of the Mount Anville community, whether it be student, parent or staff, practicing or non-practicing, are welcome to attend.
Written by Fiona Hagerty – Ethos Prefect