After nearly 18 month’s prayer and preparation, the Diocesan Synod will begin formally this week and continue on alternating Saturdays of the Easter Season. The sessions will take place in Notre Dame High School here in Greenock and it is hoped that around 175 delegates representing both laity and clergy will meet to discuss the themes of Laity and New Evangelization. This is the first Diocesan Synod to be held in Scotland in 70 years and the fact that it will be held here in Greenock, only a stones’ throw from St Joseph’s should be a source of pride to us all. It is hoped that the conversations in the Synod will give the Bishop a clear steer on the way ahead for our Diocese and that all of us can work together for the flourishing of the faith here in this corner of the Lord’s vineyard. Our delegates to the Synod, as well as Fr John and Deacon Paul, are Claire Duffy, Stephen McCauley and Kevin O’Brien.