Australian consultation summary published ahead of October assembly
Australian Catholics have offered a range of perspectives on how the Church can become a more synodal Church in a final document to be sent to the Vatican as part of the Synod on Synodality.
The summary report, following consultation with hundreds of Catholics across Australia, will be presented at the October Assembly of the Synod of Bishops in Rome.
The report is a synthesis of summaries from 25 dioceses, three Eastern Catholic Church provinces and a further 13 organisations that also made submissions. These summaries followed a consultation held by each group in the period from February to April.
Those taking part in the process appreciated the opportunity to listen to differing opinions in a deep and respectful way, as well as contribute ideas about how to become a synodal Church. One thing that was acknowledged widely was the changing nature of the Catholic Church in Australia through migration and differing patterns of engagement.
There were many comments on finding ways to encourage the involvement of all cultural groups in the mission of the Church, improve the awareness and enactment of joint responsibility and overcome barriers by deeper listening.
Themes emerging from the consultation included the equal dignity of women and men, connecting with families and young people, social media, liturgy and faith, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ministry, working with other churches, and encouraging the use of each individual's unique gifts.
The document will form a basis for discussion at the October Assembly of the Synod of Bishops in Rome. Fifteen people from Australia will participate in the Assembly, including Bishop Anthony Randazzo and Chancellor Kelly Paget from Broken Bay.
The full document is available at the link below.
Australian consultation summary document 2024
16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops