Pope Francis has invited the entire Church to reflect on a theme that is decisive for its life and mission: “It is precisely this path of synodality which God expects of the Church of the third millennium.”

A basic question prompts and guides us: How does this “journeying together,” which takes place today, allow the Church to proclaim the Gospel in accordance with the mission entrusted to her; and what steps does the Spirit invite us to take in order to grow as a synodal Church?  Addressing this question together requires listening to the Holy Spirit, who like the wind “blows where it wills; you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes,” remaining open to the surprises that the Spirit will certainly prepare for us along the way.

Our Diocese formally opened the “diocesan phase” of the synod process on Sunday, Oct 24, with Bishop Cahill celebrating the Eucharist in our Cathedral of Our Lady of Victory.  Our Synod will be coordinated by Jennifer Vincent and Dr. Glenn Hunter with the assistance of Aldo Camacho.  They will help organize and facilitate the consultation of faithful throughout the diocese.

As the Holy Father expressed: "… We recall that the purpose of the Synod, and therefore of this consultation, is not to produce documents, but to “plant dreams, draw forth prophecies and visions, allow hope to flourish, inspire trust, bind up wounds, weave together relationships, awaken a dawn of hope, learn from one another and create a bright resourcefulness that will enlighten minds, warm hearts, give strength to our hands…”   These are expansive goals that only through our turning to the power--and trusting the guidance of the Holy Spirit--we can accomplish.