Dear Parishioners,

You may have noticed that after all the Masses this month (until October 29th), we are praying for the 16th General Synod of Bishops. (Also called the Synod on Synodality) I know that many of you may be wondering why we are doing that. So, here is my brief explanation.

What is a synod?

According to Canon law, a synod is “a group of bishops who have been chosen from different regions of the world and meet at fixed times to foster closer unity between the Roman Pontiff and bishops, to assist the Roman Pontiff with their counsel in the preservation and growth of faith and morals and in the observance and strengthening of ecclesiastical discipline, and to consider questions pertaining to the activity of the Church in the world.” (Canon 342)

What is synodality?

This term describes a process of fraternal collaboration; specifically the Holy Father would like the laity to be involved in this Synod. Pope Francis has encouraged this collaboration by preparing for this Synod in a series of stages. First, we had a year of listening sessions that were offered on the parish level. Second, there is the continental level where the bishops gathered together what was said by the laity in documents produced by the various conferences of bishops. The final step will be for the bishops (and 70 non-bishops) at the Synod to reflect on where the Holy Spirit is leading the Church and to advise the Pope.

Does the Synod have the ability to change Church practice or doctrine?

No. Its role is advisory.

Is this the same as the German Synod of bishops?

No. The German Synod has had some issues with pushing the Church to except blessing of same sex unions and allowing divorced and remarried Catholics to receive communion. The Holy See has corrected them in these matters.

Should we be worried that the General Synod might advise the Pope to promulgate something against the teachings of the Church?

No. I firmly believe in Papal infallibility: that the Holy Spirit will preserve the Pope from error on matters of faith and morals. Despite all the confusion out there, neither Pope Francis nor any Pope has ever contradicted the teachings of the Church when using their teaching authority.

Finally, why are we praying for this Synod?

Pope Francis has asked us to pray for the Synod so that they may be inspired to listen to the Holy Spirit. We ought to pray for what we wish to go well, especially for those things outside our own control. As Pope Francis has said, “Without prayer there will be no synod.”

Overall, keep praying and don’t worry.

God bless!

Fr. Carter