Dioceses helped to ‘recollect’ on synodality implementation

By CathNews New Zealand

July 31st, 2026

Pope Francis and members of the Synod of Bishops on synodality offer a prayer of thanks to God after the synod's final working session on October 26, 2024, in the Paul VI Audience Hall at the Vatican. (CNS photo/Vatican Media)

Ahead of the 2028 ecclesial assembly for the Synod on Synodality, the Vatican has called on dioceses to provide an assessment of their implementation of the practice of synodality. Source: EWTN News.

The General Secretariat of the Synod published a “Recollecting” document on July 27, providing diocesan synodal teams with a resource to draft their reflections on their progress since the diocesan phase began in October 2021.

Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary-general of the synod, explained that the notes are intended to help local churches “recollect” their synodal journey with gratitude.

“Evaluation is not a technical exercise but an experience of gratitude and truth,” Cardinal Grech said. “Recollecting means recognising what the Lord has brought to maturity in the journey of our communities and allowing ourselves to be guided towards the next steps.”

The recollecting phase is part of the 2028 preparation for synodal teams and will culminate in a broader reflection during the first half of 2027. Each diocese is to prepare two documents around that time: a narrative report and a letter to the other churches.

The “Recollecting” document called for discussions about the challenges facing synodality at the local level, including resistance.

“Particular attention should be given to the difficulties encountered, resistance to renewal, obstacles that have hindered the journey, unsuccessful attempts and questions that remain open,” the document stated.

FULL STORY

Vatican calls for honest assessment of synodality ahead of 2028 assembly (By Ishmael Adibuah/EWTN News)