Global Synod
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Synod: Interim reports of Study Groups published
Established by Pope Francis in March 2024, the Study Groups have delivered reports on the work carried out so far, starting from the conclusion of the Synod on Synodality. The deadline for delivering the final reports to Leo XIV has been set for 31 December. Among the topics covered are the digital mission, the role of women, ecumenism, polygamy, liturgy, the ministry of nuncios, and the selection of bishops.
Learn more: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2025-11/synod-interim-reports-of-study-groups-published.html -
Pope: ‘Synodality presents itself as a promising path forward’Pope Leo addresses the Catholicos Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East and the Members of the Joint Commission for the Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Assyrian Church of the East. In his discourse, he praises the progress the two Churches have made on their path of dialogue.
Learn more: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-10/pope-synodality-presents-itself-as-a-promising-path-forward.html -
North American Final Document for the Continental Stage of the 2021-2024 Synod
The Continental Stage of the 2021-2024 Synod: For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission comes to an end with the release of the Final Document from the bishops of the United States and Canada. Find it here in English and Spanish. -
U.S. Bishops Release National Synthesis Outlining Common Themes Raised in Synod Listening Sessions
On September 19, 2022, the USCCB released the U.S. National Synthesis Report from the diocesan phase of the Synod on Synodality. It can be found here in both English and Spanish. The USCCB also provided some talking points and graphics as resources for dioceses and parishes. Additionally, the Region VII Summary Report is also available.
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Global Synod in the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana
This month marks the beginning of a three-year synodal journey that Pope Francis has requested of all dioceses around the world. The process includes three phases of consultations and discernment—diocesan, continental and universal, and will conclude at the assembly of select bishops at the Vatican in October of 2023.
“The Synod was conceived by Pope Paul VI as a way to continue the collegial experience of the Second Vatican Council,” said an article published by Vatican News on May 21, 2021. “During the ceremonies commemorating the 50th anniversary of the institution of the Synod of Bishops, Pope Francis expressed his desire for a common path for ‘laity, pastors, the Bishop of Rome.’ Now, for the first time, a ‘decentralized’ Synod is being celebrated.”
The purpose of the Synod is to explore synodality—that is to encourage conversations and consultations that help the whole Church, clergy and laity, journey together better. While the dialogue is limited in scope, the goal is to hear from a variety of voices both within and outside of the Church.
The synodal journey will begin at the Vatican, in the presence of the Pope, on October 9 and 10, 2021 with a time for prayer, followed by the celebration of the Eucharist.
The local Churches will start on their path Sunday, October 17, under the presidency of the diocesan bishop. For the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana, this opening Mass will take place at St. Maria Goretti in Westfield at 10 a.m. on the 17th.