Synod 2021-2023

Our Holy Father Pope Francis has invited the Catholic Church to embark on a journey together. Through listening and discernment rooted in the Holy Spirit, the entire people of God will be called to contribute to a process by which the Church deepens in understanding of Her mission and looks toward the future.

A Synod, which is the process by which the Church will begin this important work is not just a convening of Bishops reflecting on a particular topic and advising the Pope. A Synod is a journey of discernment, in which the people of God are called to pray and reflect upon the Holy Spirit’s will for the Church. Through our listening and our sharing, we will seek to understand what the Holy Spirit’s will is for the topic being discussed – and thus, for the Church.

For the 2023 Ordinary Synod of Bishops, that topic is synodality. Simply put, synodality is discerning how the Spirit is moving through and with the Body of Christ, so that we may continue to fulfill our mission to evangelize in the world.

More information can be found on our new Diocesan website: https://www.rcsouthwark.co.uk/get-involved/synod/

Key documents from the Synod Office in Rome can be found here: https://www.synod.va/en.html

Also a number of resources prepared by our own Diocesan Agency for Evangelisation and Catechesis

The Bishops’ Conference Synod 2021-2023 information & frequently asked questions: https://www.cbcew.org.uk/synodal-church/