The Synod on Synodality is a worldwide process that invited Catholics to reflect on how the Church listens, makes decisions and carries out its mission. The word synod comes from the Greek meaning “walking together”, and that simple idea sits at the heart of the entire process. How can we better journey together as the People of God? 

Launched by Pope Francis in 2021, the Synod unfolded over three years. It began with listening sessions in parishes and dioceses around the world, where Catholics were invited to share their experiences, hopes and concerns. Those conversations informed discussions at national and continental levels before culminating in two assemblies in Rome. 

What made this Synod unique was who was gathered around the table. Alongside bishops were priests, religious and, for the first time, lay women and men who participated fully in the discussions and voting. It reflected the Church’s recognition that every baptised person has a role to play in its life and mission. 

The Synod sought to renew the way the Church lives out its mission by fostering a culture of listening, discernment and collaboration. 

Following the conclusion of the Synod, Pope Francis adopted the Final Document as part of the ordinary teaching of the Church. This means its vision is now guiding dioceses around the world as they discern how to become more faithful to their mission. 

At the heart of the Final Document are three aspirations: to become a more missionary, more participatory and more synodal Church. 

A missionary Church reaches beyond its own walls, sharing the hope of the Gospel and accompanying people wherever they are. 

A participatory Church recognises that every baptised person has gifts to offer. Through ministry, service, leadership and lived experience, all are called to contribute to the Church’s mission. 

A synodal Church is one that listens before it speaks. It values prayerful discernment, respectful dialogue and genuine collaboration between clergy and laity, while honouring the leadership entrusted to bishops. It reminds us that listening to one another is also a way of listening for the Holy Spirit. 

Today, the Church has entered the implementation phase of the Synod, with the key idea: How do we live it? 

What does this mean for us? 

For our Diocese, it means continuing to build a Church where people are heard, where participation is encouraged, and where we discern together how God is calling us to serve our communities. It is an invitation to move beyond consultation towards a lasting culture of shared mission, responsibility and hope. 

To help explore these questions, the Diocese is hosting a series of regional gatherings on the Final Document of the Synod on Synodality. Together, we will unpack its key themes, consider what they mean for our local Church and explore how they can be lived out in our parishes and ministries. 

Participants will also have the opportunity to express their interest in joining Synodal Teams. These teams will form a diocesan network that supports ongoing listening, discernment and collaboration as we continue our synodal journey. Together they will help foster participation, encourage dialogue and strengthen connections across our communities. 

Upcoming Regional Gatherings 

You can view upcoming gatherings here: Events – Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle

The Synod on Synodality is an invitation to renew the way we live our faith together. 

As disciples of Christ, we are all called to walk together, listen to the Holy Spirit and share the Gospel with the world. The implementation of the Synod is not the end of a process, but the beginning of a renewed way of being in which every baptised person has a place, a voice and a mission.