“The Church recognizes that synodality is an integral part of her very nature. Being a synodal Church finds expression in ecumenical councils, Synods of Bishops, diocesan Synods, and diocesan and parish councils. There are many ways by which we experience forms of ‘synodality’ already across the Church. Yet being a synodal Church is not limited to these existing institutions. Indeed, synodality is not so much an event or a slogan as a style and a way of being by which the Church lives out her mission in the world. The mission of the Church requires the entire People of God to be on a journey together, with each member playing his or her crucial role, united with each other. A synodal Church walks forward in communion to pursue a common mission through the participation of each and every one of her members. The objective of this Synodal Process is not to provide a temporary or one-time experience of synodality, but rather to provide an opportunity for the entire People of God to discern together how to move forward on the path towards being a more synodal Church in the long-term” (Vademecum, 1.3).

This synodal process involves everyone. “Dioceses are called to keep in mind that the main subjects of this synodal experience are all the baptized. Special care should be taken to involve those persons who may risk being excluded: women, the handicapped, refugees, migrants, the elderly, people who live in poverty, Catholics who rarely or never practice their faith, etc. Creative means should also be found in order to involve children and youth” (Vademecum, 2.1). This act of dialogue and discernment should be also open to the voices of other faith traditions and those with no faith tradition in the local community (see Vademecum, 2.1).

To further the spirit of synodality, our community will join together to meditate on and pray the Adsumus Sancte Spiritus, which is the prayer that began every session at the Second Vatican Council.

Understanding the nature of the synodal process will help reach the goal of synodality. The Preparatory Document and the Vademecum are the principal documents to learn about the Synod on Synodality.

You are invited to participate actively through local listening sessions, which will be hosted at parishes throughout the Diocese of Nashville, as well as an online survey on the Diocesan website.