Julieann Moran – Synodal Pathway Update: Guidelines published for the implementation phase of the Synod on Synodality

As the Church in Ireland continues on the pathway towards the National Synodal Assembly this October, the wider synodal journey of the universal Church is also moving forward. The General Secretariat of the Synod has published a new document outlining the next steps in the implementation phase of the Synod on Synodality, leading towards the Ecclesial Assembly in Rome in October 2028.

The process will unfold in four stages:
Recollecting (first half of 2027)
Dioceses and eparchies will reflect on their experience of implementing the Synod’s Final Document and share a short report and letter with other Churches.
Interpreting (second half of 2027)
Episcopal Conferences will gather the fruits of this work into a theological and pastoral reflection, alongside a letter to other local Churches.
Orienting (early 2028)
Continental Assemblies will identify shared priorities and emerging directions for the Church’s synodal journey.
Celebrating (October 2028)
An Ecclesial Assembly in the Vatican, with the Holy Father, will bring together the fruits of the journey from across the global Church.
A single guiding question will shape the process at every stage: What concrete signs of a missionary synodal Church are emerging in
your community, and what new paths of synodality are taking shape?

The document stresses that this is not about repeating earlier consultations, but about reflecting on what has already been learned, sharing experiences between Churches, and discerning where the Holy Spirit is leading the Church now. The new guidance offers a practical framework to help local Churches reflect on how synodality is taking root in parish and diocesan life. 
Find out more about this document here.
While we continue the important work underway here in Ireland, this four-stage process provides a helpful way for us to reflect together, deepen participation, and support the ongoing implementation of synodality in the life and mission of the Church in Ireland.

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