Killaloe Diocesan Synod Team Reflects on the Synodal Journey and Next Steps
The Killaloe Diocesan Synod Team met on November 11th to reflect on the recent National Synodal Assembly in Gormanston and consider the next steps in the synodal journey. Members welcomed the Assembly as a positive and encouraging experience, while recognising the challenge of translating its many proposals into a manageable number of practical priorities. The discussion emphasised that synodality is an ongoing journey of listening and discernment, where local experiences contribute to wider conversations and are, in turn, enriched by the perspectives of others.
The Team also acknowledged the synodal work already taking place across the diocese, including faith development, lay ministry formation, pastoral structures, and initiatives such as Baptised and Sent, while recognising the need to engage more widely with people beyond traditional parish structures.
Looking ahead, the Team considered the recently published Diocesan Assembly Toolkit, which invites dioceses to reflect on their synodal journey over the past five years, recognising achievements, identifying areas requiring further attention and discerning realistic priorities for the future. This process will involve preparing a diocesan report and convening a wider diocesan assembly in 2027, bringing together clergy, lay ministers, parish representatives, and other voices from across the diocese.
The Team also discussed broadening its own representation, strengthening communications, and ensuring that synodality leads to meaningful action rather than additional structures. Preparations for this work will continue at the Team’s next meeting on November 24th, ahead of further consideration by the Diocesan Pastoral Council in December.
Currently the synodal team consists of the following members:
Gerard Lynch (Chair), Don O’Sullivan (Secretary), Vonnie Dalton, Ríona Browne, Jim Sexton, Denis Bates, Fr. Michael Collins, Fr. Pat Malone, Bishop Fintan Monahan. The plan is to broaden membership in the near future.