Synod 2021-2024
SYNOD: AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE
On the 10th October Pope Francis opened the pathway for a Universal Synod that will take place in Rome in 2023. This Synod will be a gathering that takes place after all the local Churches have shared their contribution on the experience of journeying together in Communion, Participation and Mission.
In our Diocese, of Down and Connor, we will have a time of listening and sharing prayerfully through Advent. During this time there will be an opportunity for you to share your experience of what it is like to be a part of our Church today.
Pope Francis announced on Sunday that the Synod on Synodality will be extended to 2024.
Speaking in his Angelus address on Oct. 16, the pope shared his decision to divide the Synod of Bishops into two sessions that will meet in Rome in October 2023 and October 2024.
Pope Francis explained that he made the decision “in order to have a more relaxed period of discernment.”
“The fruits of the synodal process under way are many, but so that they might come to full maturity, it is necessary not to be in a rush,” Francis said.
Adsumus Sancte Spiritus
This prayer can be widely used throughout the diocesan phase of the Synodal Process. It can likewise be incorporated into the liturgical celebration to open the Synod in local Churches on October 17. Attributed to St. Isidore of Seville (560-636), it has been traditionally used at Councils and Synods for hundreds of years. The version below was specifically designed for the Church’s Synodal journey from 2021 to 2023.
Adsumus Sancte Spiritus
We stand before You, Holy Spirit, as we gather together in Your name.
With You alone to guide us, make Yourself at home in our hearts; Teach us the way we must go and how we are to pursue it.
We are weak and sinful; do not let us promote disorder.
Do not let ignorance lead us down the wrong path nor partiality influence our actions.
Let us find in You our unity so that we may journey together to eternal life and not stray from the way of truth and what is right.
All this we ask of You, who are at work in every place and time, in the communion of the Father and the Son, forever and ever.
Amen.