The Catholic Church across the world has entered the most exciting phase of its Synod journey the implementation phase (2025–2028). This period is dedicated to transforming the vision and discernment of the Synod into tangible actions, renewed structures, and a vibrant missionary commitment, ensuring that its aspirations are fully lived out in the life of the Church. Anchored in the Final Document of the XVI Ordinary General Assembly, this stage isn’t merely optional; it is central to the Church’s life, equipping her to better proclaim the Gospel today.

Pope Francis, before his passing, entrusted the Final Document to the whole Church as part of the ordinary Magisterium, asking that its proposals be received and applied. Pope Leo XIV has reaffirmed this mission, urging Catholics to be a missionary Church that builds bridges, encourages dialogue, and welcomes all.

To guide local Churches in faithfully and creatively enacting the Final Document, the General Secretariat, together with Sr Nathalie Becquart, released Pathways for the Implementation Phase of the Synod. Sr Becquart emphasised that the document is designed to support first, the implementation of the Synod at the local level; but at the same time the ‘exchange of gifts’ between the local churches. Pope Francis and subsequently Pope Leo XIV have endorsed this three‑year roadmap, which runs until October 2028 and will conclude with an Ecclesial Assembly in Rome.

Synodality isn’t a temporary measure it’s a lasting form of being Church. Sr Becquart, echoing theologian Ormond Rush, described it as “Vatican II in a nutshell,” characterised by communion, participation, and mission. This journey invites personal and communal transformation, rooted in listening, dialogue, and discernment.

The Final Document must be read and prayed over individually and communally keeping Christ at the centre and listening to the Spirit. It calls for conversion at every level: personal, communal, cultural, and structural. Its proposals cannot be cherry-picked; they must be understood within its theological vision rooted in Vatican II.

A foundational concept in synodality is that every local Church has something to give and something to receive.  The Pathways document encourages the sharing of initiatives, insights, and best practices both locally and globally, culminating in shared discernment and unity.

While priorities will vary by context, common areas for sharing and evaluation include:
– Deepening synodal spirituality.
– Expanding leadership roles for lay men and women.
– Developing new ministries and forms of service.
– Strengthening ecclesial discernment and transparent decision-making.
– Renewing participatory bodies like parish and diocesan councils.
– Holding regular local and regional ecclesial assemblies.
– Ensuring Christian initiation and formation programs embody synodality.

The Synod insists that method and content are inseparable. Ecclesial discernment rooted in prayer, listening, and the sensus fidei is central. “Conversation in the Spirit,” while not the only method, has proven powerful for building trust and unity. Synodality is to permeate diverse settings: training courses, listening encounters, pilgrimages, popular devotions, digital evangelisation, pastoral renewal initiatives, and theological research. The goal is a lived experience of walking together, where missionary creativity meets the realities of modern mobility, migration, and digital culture.

Ultimately, the implementation phase is about living synodality as a way of being Church firmly rooted in faith yet responsive to new contexts. If embraced fully, it can renew the Church’s witness, making her more open, missionary, and united in the service of the Gospel.