Bishop Terry has approved the final Diocese of Middlesbrough synthesis document, which brings together views expressed during our synod journey so far.
Parishes, religious communities, schools and individuals were all asked to contribute to the document, as well as those on the margins of society and the Church.
Over three-quarters of parishes throughout the diocese and around two-thirds of our Catholic schools gave their feedback, along with eight different religious orders.
All first prayed for the guidance of the Holy Spirit and reflected on a passage of scripture before focusing on two questions:
A synodal Church, in announcing the Gospel, journeys together.
1. How is this journeying together happening today in your local church?
2. What steps does the Spirit invite us to take in order to grow in your journeying together?
Participants discussed a broad range of topics, including spiritual formation, welcome and community, communications and the place of the Church in today’s world.
Bishop Terry will initially present the synthesis to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales.
The title of the Synod of Bishops, which takes place in Rome in October 2023, is “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, Mission.”. Pope Francis’ aim through the synodal process is that the Church in today’s world should have a vision of missionary communion orientated towards evangelisation.
You can download a copy of the document below…