Nichols: gathering in Rome must avoid ‘collateral’ damage

October’s Synod on the Family should not be seen as a battle between competing sides as this will lead to “collateral damage”, according to Cardinal Vincent Nichols, writes Christopher Lamb.

Delivering a homily during the Chrism Mass in Westminster Cathedral on Tuesday, which focused largely on God’s mercy, the cardinal said: “It is wrong, in my view, to think or speak of this synod as a battle, a battle between contesting sides. Battles have winners and losers. And often ‘collateral damage’ is the most tragic consequence of hostilities.”

He went on: “No, this synod is a time of prayerful discernment, discernment about how we are to bring the love, mercy and truth of God to all people in need.”