The third annual Kilian's lecture was given by the Dean, Prof. Declan Marmion on 4th July last at the opulent 'Residenz' or Würzburg Palace, part of which is used by the University.

The topic was a current one: 'The Synodal Vision of Pope Francis. Challenge and Opportunity'. It engendered a lively discussion not least because Francis had just written to the German Bishops as they set out on their synodal journey. Also present was a sizeable delegation from Ireland over for the Kiliansfest or Kilian's Festival which lasts through the week. A happy coincidence was the State visit of our President to Germany which also took in a visit to St Kilian's cathedral and to the grave of St Kilian, the patron Saint of this capital city of Franconia.

I would like to record my thanks to Prof. Martin Stuffleser, Dean of the Faculty of Theology in Würzburg, and his team for the wonderful hospitality I experienced this week.

We hope that this annual lecture delivered by various Faculty members will strengthen the links between our two Faculties in the coming years.

- Declan Marmion