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.
Holy Innocents, as well as all parishes around the world, will be participating in the Synod called for by the Holy Father, by hosting listening sessions where we will come together for respectful consultation of the faithful so that we might hear and discern the Holy Spirit’s call, or for those who cannot attend in person, by making available online or mail-in questionnaires so their voices can be heard. Guided by the Holy Spirit, the listening sessions will give all the opportunity to express the obstacles and joys of their faith journey, their concerns for the future of the Church, as well as their excitement for the road ahead.
“By journeying together and reflecting together on the journey that has been made, the Church will be able to learn through Her experience which processes can help Her to live communion, to achieve participation, to open Herself to mission.”
We walk this common road together, so we ask that you participate in this most important event for the good of the Church and the good of us all.
Message from Bishop O’Connell:
Listening Sessions/Synod Questionnaire
To include as many people as possible, Holy Innocents parish is offering different dates with various times to conduct listening sessions. To participate in one of the listening sessions, please register with the parish office online HERE or via email, toddcarterpriest@gmail.com, or by phone at 732-922-4242, ext. 114.
Listening Session (to be held in the cafeteria):
- March 5, 2:00 p.m.
**Please Note: Due to the increasing covid transmission rates, all participants are required to wear a mask during the listening sessions. We thank you for your cooperation during this trying time.**
Online or Mail-in Questionnaire:
Alternatively, you may submit an online questionnaire or print out a mail-in version of the questionnaire and send your response to the parish. If you have any questions, please contact the parish office.
Additional Resources:
Diocese Synod Website: https://dioceseoftrenton.org/xvi-synod
Bishop O’Connell on the Synodal Process (video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhEqGPORjbg
Pastoral Letter “On The Church’s Synodal Path of ‘Communion, Participation and Mission:’’’ https://d2y1pz2y630308.cloudfront.net/14277/documents/2021/11/Pastoral%20Letter%20on%20Synodality%20FINAL.pdf