by Brian McGee

I found the recent Synod of Bishops an incredible experience in so many ways, including at the personal level. When I returned home I spent some time at Nunraw Abbey on retreat to reflect upon, and be open to, the graces offered. In this article however I will briefly reflect on seven themes which emerged for me during the Synod before suggesting some possible next steps for Scotland.

I found the recent Synod of Bishops an incredible experience in so many ways, including at the personal level. When I returned home I spent some time at Nunraw Abbey on retreat to reflect upon, and be open to, the graces offered. In this article however I will briefly reflect on seven themes which emerged for me during the Synod before suggesting some possible next steps for Scotland.

THEMES FROM THE SYNOD

A Spiritual Experience

Prior to going to Rome I participated in two online preparatory meetings. On hearing the Synod described primarily as ‘a spiritual experience’ I was sceptical, to say the least. After all, what kind of meetings are spiritual experiences? Thankfully I was wrong.

The Synod was immediately preceded by an Ecumenical Prayer Vigil and Retreat. I was amazed to learn that this was the first Synod of Bishops to begin with a retreat. What an oversight! The retreat was beautifully led by Fr Timothy Radcliffe. The quiet time, the introduction to the Conversation in the Spirit and the opportunity to meet each other set the scene.

The Synod itself was permeated with regular periods of prayer and silence, including Mass in St Peter’s at the start of each module. The small group work was shaped around the Conversation in the Spirit methodology. The pilgrimage to the Catacombs reminded us that the martyrs gave their lives so that we might have faith. The prayer service for migrants, the rosary, Eucharistic adoration and Friday fasting for peace opened us to our suffering sisters and brothers. Personal prayer and frequent rumination further interiorised the call to conversion. It was almost like being on a month’s retreat!

Listening

Listening was central. The worldwide submissions which had appealed for a more listening Church were reiterated throughout the Synod sessions. Even the very set up of the Assembly Hall encouraged listening. Instead of sitting in rows and in hierarchical order we were assigned to Small Groups and seated at round tables. My tables were typically populated from five or even six continents. We changed small groups five times (for each module) which enabled wider sharing of ideas.

The Conversations in the Spirit opened us up to the Spirit, recognising the presence of the Spiritin others too. Prior personal study and prayer on the topic was expected. During the actual meetings – whether of small groups or plenary sessions – roughly a quarter of the  time was dedicated to silence. When people spoke no one could interrupt. No one, whatever their position, could speak more often or longer than anyone else. Listening was paramount.

The listening and discussions were of a very high quality. We were not trying to win an argument, resembling the debating chamber of a parliament but humbly and patiently listening to and even learning from those with whom we disagreed. The protagonist was the Holy Spirit, whose guidance we sought.

Bishop Brian McGee is Bishop of Argyll and the Isles

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