The Diocese of St. Augustine continues to engage in the synodal process by holding listening sessions. The next and final diocesan listening session has been announced and it will be on Feb. 24. 

DOSA Catholics said on Facebook: “Last week, the faithful gathered at Queen of Peace Catholic Community Gainesville, Fla., to discuss the upcoming Synod on Synodality. It’s not too late to be a part of the #ListeningChurch on Thursday, Feb. 24 at Assumption Catholic Church at the final diocesan Discernment Session.”

“Synod” comes from a Greek word meaning “coming together” or “traveling together.” The Synodal tradition for the Church began with ancient Christian leaders who would come together to discuss and pray about issues that affected the whole Church. By the 16th century, these gatherings were happening infrequently. One of the goals of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) was to reemphasize the role of bishops as leaders of their communities and encourage more communication and cooperation between bishops.

On Oct. 10, 2021, Pope Francis declared a “synod on synodality,” which is formally titled “Synod 2021-2023: For a Synodal Church.” The process will last for two years and involves expanding the existing “Synod of Bishops.” Bishops all around the world are tasked with consulting with monks, nuns, parishioners and laypeople to bring more openness and transparency to the Church. The Bishops will convene in 2023 and discuss how to move forward as a church that “journeys together.”

The most recent example of a Synod occurred in 1962 and ran to 1965. The results were several important changes in church law and structure. It is known as the Second Vatican Council. 

Pope Francis has emphasized that listening is the key part of this process. He has encouraged followers to post on social media with the hashtag #ListeningChurch to be part of the conversation.