The
Rector Writes
Dear Friends,
Diocesan Synod
The annual Diocesan Synod was held recently in Taney, and as usual all the representatives from our parishes attended. In his presidential address the Archbishop highlighted two themes, which recurred throughout the two days: The Inner City and Immigration. A presentation was given by the CEO of the Dublin Docklands Development Authority as to just how extensive the regeneration of that part of the inner city will be: something in the region of 70,000 people will come to live north and south of the river, and at least that number again will come each day for work. Declining numbers meant that the C of I effectively retreated from those areas many years ago; the challenge now is to see how we can, with other churches, meet the spiritual needs of both the residents (new and long term) and those who are commuters. This will require a shift in our thinking about church life: in business districts of London, for example, many churches are closed on Sundays but packed at weekday lunchtimes.
The needs of those who have come as immigrants to Ireland has been touched on before, but the ministry of a number of parishes (including our own) was mentioned on several occasions: all agree that a co-ordinated approach for groups working together is what is required. Many of us are often unaware of the challenges that immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees face here: just last week one of our parishioners and our colleague Sandra came face to face with a very unpleasant situation in our court system.
Other items that were highlighted at the Synod were underfunding in the school system, particularly for children with special needs, and care of the elderly. Tributes were paid to the retiring Archdeacon of Dublin, Gordon Linney after his long and intense ministry in St. Catherine's, Donore Avenue, and Glenageary.
Pathfinders
We have endeavouring to open our pathfinders Youth Club for teenagers again after the summer break. We have funding, training organised, and plenty of people eager to join. The only thing that has prevented us opening has been leaders. We have a co-ordinator, and some leaders, but not yet enough. Please pray that our people will come forward to help us build this ministry to this important age group. It could be you…..
Eames Commission
As I write this week, the Eames Commission has just published its report on how the Anglican Communion can be held together following the consecration of Gene Robinson as Bishop of New Hampshire (Bishop Robinson lives with a partner of the same gender). It is very long and detailed but, from a quick reading, the report appears to call for the American church to apologise for the consecration, but also asks others to apologise for and refrain from using offensive language about homosexuality. Of course, this issue is only a symptom of a much wider debate about the different cultural contexts in which the church finds itself, and about the use of scripture as our authority. More next time!
Yours in his service
Andrew
