Here are extracts from Pope Francis’ address for the beginning of the Synod process. Please take time to read it and capture something of Francis’ vision.

Diocesan coordinator Madeleine Walters from St Teilo’s and her team are now asking each church community for at least two people to be representatives in reflecting, sharing, and responding to the questions of the Synod.

If you would like to serve our churches in this historic event, please email Fr Matthew at matthew.jones@rcadc.org within the next three days. The diocese will supply some training, and info will continue in forthcoming newsletters. Meanwhile, once more we print the Synod prayer:

We stand before You, Holy Spirit, as we gather together in Your name.

With You alone to guide us, make Yourself at home in our hearts;

Teach us the way we must go and how we are to pursue it.

We are weak and sinful; do not let us promote disorder.

Do not let ignorance lead us down the wrong path nor partiality influence our actions.

Let us find in You our unity so that we may journey together to eternal life and not stray from the way of truth and what is right.

All this we ask of You, who are at work in every place and time,

in the communion of the Father and the Son,

forever and ever. Amen