Report from BCOS Meeting Online 30th Jan 2025
At their recent online meeting, the first of 2025, the Bishops’ Conference discussed the following items:
- The various consultation documents from the Synod Office of the Holy See regarding the selection of bishops, formation of seminarians and clergy and the role of Papal nuncios. These form part of the 10 working groups appointed by our Holy Father, Pope Francis.
- The plans for a study day for the Bishops on the final document of the Synod to take place at the Ignatian Centre at the end of February.
- Archbishop Nolan reported on his recent visit to the Holy Land as part of the International Coordination group. He commented that the parish in Gaza had been supporting 60.000 people.
- The Bishops considered the latest meeting with the Board of the Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency.
- The Annual Cardinal Winning lecture to be held on 1st March to mark the 25th anniversary of the merger of St Andrew’s College and University of Glasgow was highlighted.
- There was a discussion about the consequences of the draconian anti-abortion buffer zone legislation and its consequences for freedom of conscience and freedom of expression.
- Bishop Keenan spoke about his recent trip to Uganda to plan the pastoral placement for students for the priesthood during their pastoral year.
- Hopes were expressed for a nationwide visit of the relic of Blessed Carlo Acutis, soon to be canonised, in autumn of this year.
- Bishop Keenan looked forward to his visit to various dicasteries of the Holy See in February, as President of the Conference.
- Bishops Keenan and McGee reported on the liaison meeting of the hierarchies of Scotland, England, Wales and Ireland that took place the first of January in London.
The Conference now looks forward to its plenary meeting, in person, during March at Schoenstatt, Clachan of Campsie.