Irish synod votes on 35 proposals

More than 300 lay, clerical, and religious representatives voted on 35 proposals during a national synodal assembly in Gormanston, County Meath, on Oct. 17. The assembly addressed themes from a five-year synodal process to guide the future of the Church in Ireland.

The most highly recommended proposals included a review of sacramental and catechetical formation (69%), making healing a priority (67%), turning parishes into faith formation spaces (65%), and engaging with Irish society to discern the common good (63%). Bishop Niall Coll of Raphoe noted the results center on fostering an evangelizing Church and forming intentional disciples.

The vote showed disagreement regarding women in the Church. A majority of 56% did not recommend establishing a national office for mainstreaming women's inclusion. Regarding the exploration of women's ministry and the diaconate, 42% of delegates highly recommended the option, while 27% did not recommend pursuing it.

While some delegates supported proposals strengthening family life and youth formation, one representative from the Achonry and Elphin Diocese described some proposals as out of touch or signaling disunity.