Synod

Pope Francis announced the Sixteenth Ordinary Synod of Bishops which began in 2021 and will culminate in 2023 in Rome. The papal theme for the Synod is to become a Synodal Church through Communion, Participation, and Mission. The Greek word synodos means “to be on the journey together.” We journey as a Church together. This includes the Pope, bishops, clergy, parishes, schools, Catholic organizations, and with those on the margins. We must all collaborate together to accomplish Christ's mission to make the Gospel heard in our time. Pope Francis wants to hear from every part of the Church throughout the world. He wants to hear from those who are active in the Church, those who have left the Church, and those who have never been a part of the Church and may feel unwelcomed.

The fundamental question that guides this consultation with the People of God is the following: 

A synodal Church, in announcing the Gospel, "journeys together:" How is this "journeying together" happening today in your particular Church? What steps does the Spirit invite us to take in order to grow in our "journeying together"?

Everyone at St. Francis is being asked to participate in this process by attending one of the listening sessions.