Members of the faithful across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains are invited to learn more about the upcoming Diocesan Synod.
Formally announced by Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, on 5 March, the Diocesan Synod will gather clergy, consecrated people and the laity across our Diocese to listen, discern, and respond to the Holy Spirit through voices of the People of God in Western Sydney and The Blue Mountains.
RELATED: Bishop Vincent’s formal announcement of the convocation of a Diocesan Synod
To prepare members of the faithful across the Diocese to share their stories, the Synod Committee will be hosting two information sessions via Zoom on Thursday 27 April from 6.30pm to 7.30pm and again on Friday 28 April from 6pm to 7pm. Click here to register.
The Diocese of Parramatta has created a brand new website for the Diocesan Synod – parracatholic.org/synod2023 – with information about the Synod, and practical ways families, schools, parishes and faith communities can get involved.
“The success of the Synod relies on your participation. I want to hear from our entire community – each person, from all walks of life,” Bishop Vincent said in a video message recorded for the Synod.
“I look forward to listening and learning about the needs and hopes you have for our local Church.”
The theme of the Diocesan Synod, whose first session will be held from 12-15 October is from Isaiah 43:19 – “Behold! I am doing a new thing”.
“These are the words of the prophet Isaiah calling his people to embrace a new future out of the long exile. We, too, are being called today to embody anew God’s transforming power in the world,” Bishop Vincent said.
“My hope is that the Synod inspires us to listen to the Holy Spirit and to renew participation, communion and mission in the life of our local Church.”
Between May and July, individuals and communities are invited to participate in Deanery and parish listening consultations, organising time to discuss with family and friends, and engaging in opportunities to dialogue.
All are encouraged to reflect on the anchor question for the Synod – “In light of the call to become a more synodal Church, where is the Holy Spirit calling us to in the Diocese of Parramatta?”
Submissions from these consultations and conversations will be collected and can be provided online, in person, or via mail. The submissions will be reviewed and synthesised by a Synod working group, and will inform the development of the agenda for the Synod.
We are seeking volunteers, including small group facilitators, to assist us on the journey. If you are interested in getting involved, please email synod2023@parracatholic.org
A liturgy of Convocation will be held on The Solemnity of Pentecost on 28 May 2023 at 11am at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. All people of God in Western Sydney and Blue Mountains are invited to attend.
Register today for the two Diocesan Synod Information Nights via Zoom here: https://parracatholic.org/synod2023_registration_informationsession/
Learn more about the Diocesan Synod process and how your voice matters, visit parracatholic.org/synod2023
Diocesan Synod Prayer
O God, who always walks with us
on the journey of life, we call upon you
to lead us forth united.
Bless and guide our Diocesan Synod.
Keep us anchored in your love.
Open our hearts as we listen and discern.
Reveal to us the way we are called
to go out into the deep.
Give us the courage to pursue
the mission with bold humility.
May we experience renewal in our local Church today,
and for generations to come.
We ask this prayer through Jesus Christ,
who in the power of the Holy Spirit continues to guide your Church,
to the fullness of your Kingdom now, and forever.
Amen
Our Lady Help of Christians, pray for us.
St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us.
