It has been a privilege for me to preside at our First Diocesan Synod. From where I sit, I could clearly witness the Spirit who has been at work among us. I have felt his presence in so many ways throughout the 3 days. First of all, the Spirit was palpable in the way we have treated each other. There was a genuine sense of fellowship and a positive energy. Even when we engaged in conversations that were difficult on account of diverse viewpoints, we did so with restraint, respectand civility. Secondly, we have deepened our sense of communion with each other, not only through the working sessions but also in informal moments such as shared meals and drinks. Thirdly, there was a great effort on the part of so many who worked hard on and off the scenes to ensure the best possible outcome. The attention to details and the efficiency of organisation were truly impressive. I think we have outshone the Plenary Council and perhaps even the Roman Synod in many respects. From the catering to the childcare service, from the colour coded voting slips to signages, from the music reflections to the video clips, the team has really risen to the occasion and made me so proud.
I want to thank all the members of the synod for your contributions. As I remarked in my opening address, we are richer and better not only because we are all like-minded, but more often than not, because we are prepared to learn and enrich ourselves with the insights from others. I want to thank you also for your generosity and magnanimity in working towards consensus and in accepting the results which you might not be in total agreement with. Synodalitymeans that at times we put aside our personal preferences for the sake of the whole. Synodality also means we are walking with each other, but not necessarily at the same speed at times. Therefore, it requires ongoing care, attention, patience and love. If this Synod has taught us anything, it is about the cultivation of mutual relationships.
This synod has been much more than an event. It is a template and a model for engagement, discernmentand decision-making process. More than a destination that says we have arrived, it is a journey of ongoing learning, openness and alignment with the Spirit. So as we conclude, we feel energised to begin again. May we go forth into our various environments and become agents of synodality, enabling our families, schools, parishes, agencies etc… to become a community of mutual empowerment.
