SYNOD24

What is a synod? 

A synod is a gathering of bishops and representatives from the Church to discuss and discern important matters regarding faith, governance, and pastoral care. This process involves prayer, dialogue, and consultation, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the Church’s mission in the contemporary world. The word synod means “journeying together,” reflecting the Church’s commitment to collaboration and shared decision-making. 

A diocesan synod, like our SYNOD24, is required by Canon Law to include bishops, members of the clergy, members of religious orders, theologians, canonists, and members of the lay faithful representing parishes, Archdiocesan agencies, organisations and communities. 

In sharing his vision for the Synod on Synodality, Pope Francis said: 

SYNOD24 Overview 

SYNOD24, convened by Pope Francis, invites the Catholic community to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of the Church. In Brisbane, this process aims to include all voices, fostering an environment of open dialogue and collaboration. 

Across the Archdiocese of Brisbane, we actively participated in this synodal journey in 2024. This inclusive approach is vital for ensuring that the Church’s direction aligns with the needs and aspirations of its members. With a gathering of 150 people who represented the broad diversity of the archdiocese, SYNOD24 took place over two sessions, in September and October 2024. 

SYNOD24 Pastoral Message – Archbishop Mark Coleridge

Objectives of SYNOD24 

The SYNOD24 process focuses on several key objectives: 

• Listening and dialogue To create a culture of open communication within the Church, allowing diverse perspectives to be heard and valued 
• Unity and Collaboration To strengthen the bonds of unity among all members of the Church, promoting collaboration across different ministries and communities 
• Discernment To engage in a prayerful reflection on the Church’s mission and how best to respond to the challenges of our time 
• Mission and Evangelisation To renew the Church’s commitment to evangelisation, addressing contemporary issues with a spirit of hope and action 
• Empowerment To empower all members of the Church to take an active role in its mission, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. 

For more detailed information about SYNOD24 and its objectives, please visit the official SYNOD24 website. 

SYNOD24 Action Plans

The implementation of the Plenary Council Decrees will be delivered through eight decrees.

• Decree 1: Healing Wounds, Receiving Gifts
• Decree 2: Choosing Repentance, Seeking Healing
• Decree 3: Called by Christ, Sent Forth as Missionary Disciples
• Decree 4: Witnessing to the Equal Dignity of Women and Men
• Decree 5: Communion in Grace, Sacrament to the World
• Decree 6: Formation and Leadership for Mission and Ministry
• Decree 7: At the Service of Communion, Participation and Mission: Governance
• Decree 8: Integral Ecology and Conversion for the Sake of our Common Home