What is Synod?
Since the first centuries, the word “synod” has been applied, with a specific meaning, to the ecclesial assemblies on various levels (diocesan, provincial, regional, patriarchal or universal) to discern, by the light of the Word of God and listening to the Holy Spirit, the doctrinal, liturgical, canonical and pastoral questions that arise as time goes by. We are used to hearing of the Synod of Bishops, an assembly called by the Pope.
Pope Francis invited you
As directed by our Holy Father, we have been asked to hold a Synod – an assembly of all parishioners to discuss certain aspects of the faith as it applies to us personally.
He has titled this synod “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission.”
The results of this discussion will be forwarded to the diocese to be compiled and sent to the Synod of Bishops.
Thank you for your participation in the Synod discussions.
The Synod project in our parish consisted of 10 session meetings. It was good to see so many people sharing their heartfelt thoughts in the small group discussions. The initial intention was to get everyone’s ideas pertaining to specific questions and send them on to the diocese. However, there was a greater benefit. We had the opportunity to grow in our faith and understanding, to gain new friends, to open our hearts to people with some of the same questions and struggles, different ideas and hopes for our church in this world.
Again, thank you to all who took the time to participate. A special thank you to those that helped in so many ways.
If you would like to read the summaries of the 3 sessions – Different question/topic for each.
Please see below meeting summary of each session.