Pope Francis will open a three-year synodal process in October which will involve consultations and discernment and culminates with the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops in Rome in October 2023.
The Holy Father wants the Synod of Bishops to begin in local churches. A document approved by him states: "The fullness of the synodal process can only truly exist if the local churches are involved in that process."
How will it work in our Archdiocese?
A period of consultation and discernment for dioceses begins on Sunday 17 October. For us, it will take place under the direction of Archbishop Cushley.
He said: "The first Diocesan stage of the synod is a consultation of the People of God. I look forward to prayerful engagement among Catholics across the Archdiocese as we ask the Holy Spirit to guide us at this significant moment for our Church."
The Secretariat of the Synod will send a preparatory document accompanied by a questionnaire and a vademecum (a guide) with proposals for carrying out a consultation in each particular Church.
This is set to be issued by the Vatican in September and will help us prepare to make sure the voice of all the faithful is heard. We'll keep you updated on this website and on our social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram).
Our Delegates
Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM has been selected as our lead delegate in the national synodal process. She will be assisted by Fr John Deighan (St Machan's, Lennoxtown). Their role is to help guide the process, as well as to listen.
Please pray for the success of this initiative in the life of the universal and local Church, that together we listen to the Holy Spirit speaking through all of us in the Body of Christ.