Broken Bay Bishop Anthony Randazzo has announced the framework for a Diocesan Synod to be held next year.
The Synod will be formally convoked by Bishop Randazzo at Pentecost this year, which is also the 40th anniversary of the diocese.
Clergy, religious and laity will discuss important matters relevant to the specific needs of the Broken Bay Diocese under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
“The Synod will be far more than an event,” Bishop Randazzo said.
“It is a spiritual journey of listening, discernment, and shared mission for the whole diocese.
“A time of prayer, reflection, and engagement with the People of God across parishes, schools, communities, and agencies.”
Bishop Randazzo emphasised that synods “are not new”.
“They are not an innovation of the modern Church, nor a departure from Catholic faith or practice. Rather, synods are an ancient and enduring expression of how the Church lives, discerns, and carries out her mission, both at the universal level and within the local Church,” he said.
“Synodal gatherings have always been moments when the community of the Church pauses, listens, prays, and discerns how best to remain faithful to Jesus Christ and to proclaim His Gospel in changing circumstances.”
Preparatory work for the Synod has already begun, with Bishop Randazzo announcing a Synod Preparatory Commission which will serve from February to Easter this year.
The commission, comprising Clergy, diocesan leaders, and parishioners, is tasked with designing the processes that will guide the diocese towards the formal convocation.
Its responsibilities include developing the overall timeline, shaping consultation and formation pathways to provide broad and genuine participation across the diocese, and a foundational structure for the Synod Assembly between April 30 and May 2.
Updates on the Synod journey will be shared through diocesan communication channels as the process unfolds.
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Synod of the Diocese of Broken Bay more than an event (Broken Bay Diocese)
