Below is a link to a document that aims to be a synthesis of the many and lively discussions that took place in parishes and in other gatherings following the launch of the diocesan phase of the Synodal Process in October 2021.
The full document can be seen at the bottom of this post. The conclusion from the document is as follows:
Bishop Hugh has expressed his hope that the synod process within our diocese should not end with the submission of this report to the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland. Besides encouraging the desire for increased lay participation in the life of each local parish, he envisages gathering a group of lay people from around the diocese, who, along with clergy and religious, will work to move forward suggestions which will benefit parishioners and all those we seek to serve in this diocese.
Particular areas to discuss and develop should include:
- Increasing our engagement in charitable works at the parish and diocesan levels. This should not be limited to raising funds for other charities; it should also involve contact with the people we seek to assist.
- Working with other Christian denominations to start or reinstate ecumenical initiatives. This cannot remain limited to prayer initiatives. Evangelical and charitable initiatives will allow us to give joint witness to the Gospel.
- Reviewing and developing communication within the diocese. This is essential for parishes in such a widespread diocese. We must also promote a more positive presence of the Church in the press and social media.
- Formation opportunities should be made more widely accessible to the population we seek to serve. Special consideration should be given as to how to provide formation for busy parents and teachers and also of how to provide ongoing formation for children and young people. Finding ways for parishes to collaborate in youth ministry will benefit the young people of our diocese.
- Rebuilding parish communities and reaching out to families must be a priority. Additional activities are not necessarily the answer, but building relationships is essential. We must consider how to make the most of our contact with one another.
- Fostering lay involvement and influence in the life and ministry of the church. The needs of parishes and the diocese must be considered as well as the level of expertise and commitment required for leadership and volunteer roles. Once those are identified, training opportunities and voluntary or paid work may be further discussed.