Synod 2003 Archive

Synod
Convocation

Preparing for
Consultation

Consultation
Phase

Preparation for
Synod Assembly

Synod
Assembly

Synod
Promulgation

Announcement & Convocation of Synod

In mid-2000 Archbishop John Bathersby consulted with the Council of Priests and others as to the desirability of a Synod to shape renewal and pastoral action at the beginning of the third millennium. In October a representative body was appointed to advise on questions or issues that form the synod agenda.

The Archbishop then named as the Major Focus of the Synod "That our hearts may be set on fire with the challenge of following Jesus and transforming the world in the twenty-first century". He further named four particular issues to be discussed and charged the synod with determining creative and effective ways of assisting the local Church to address these issues.

The four issues named were as follows: -

To understand and value the spiritual treasure that the Church has to offer today's world;
To respond to the spiritual hunger of people today, including emerging believers, Catholics unconnected to a church community and those who have no religious faith;
To respond to, engage with and animate the spiritual life of young people;
To nurture the mission, ministry and vocation of the priests and people of the Archdiocese.

On the 1st Sunday of Advent 2000 the Synod was formally convoked, to meet in 2003.

DOCUMENTATION

Decree of Convocation