Press Releases13 Nov 24

2024 Irish Inter–Church Meeting calls for churches to recommit to reconciliation in Ireland today

The Irish Inter–Church Meeting (IICM) held its 34th plenary gathering on November 12–13, 2024, at the Dromantine Conference Centre in Newry, uniting Christian leaders from across 16 of Ireland’s church traditions. The theme, ‘Finding the Face of God in One Another’, focused on the various ways society in Ireland is fracturing today, with discussions centered on responding to the human dignity in every person.

Reflecting on a range of contemporary challenges, including the legacy of the conflict in Northern Ireland, racism and ethnic discrimination, and concerns over economic inequality and cultural polarisation, the IICM sought to examine the church’s role in promoting healing and reconciliation in an evolving Ireland. The gathering recognised the need to encourage churches’ engagement in reconciliation and called on church communities to address these issues with renewed commitment.

Co–Chair Bishop Brendan Leahy opened the event, noting that in order for churches to be able to contribute to reconciliation in society, they also need to attend to their own wounds.

Keynote speaker Professor Dr. Martin Leiner, founder of Jena University’s Centre of Reconciliation Studies, gave a theological exploration on the foundations of reconciliation, while facilitator Carole Kane guided participants in creative expressions of unity through worship and the arts. Further sessions included ‘Peaced Together’, an example of a practical project of reconciliation in local communities. Additionally, a panel discussion with emerging theologians and practitioners, including Rev. Philip McKinley, Dr. Kevin Hargaden, and Dr. Suzanne Mulligan, provided fresh perspectives on current societal dynamics in need of reconciliation.

The meeting concluded with an ecumenical discernment session, guided by Julieann Moran, utilizing “Conversations in the Spirit,” a methodology developed for the Catholic Church’s synodal process. IICM co–chair Bishop  Sarah Groves provided closing remarks, affirming the churches’ commitment to addressing societal divisions and fostering unity in 21st–century Ireland.