Synodal Pathway

Preparations for Irish Synodal Assembly or Assemblies
Following completion of the initial phase of the Irish Synodal Pathway, the Irish Church begins preparations for an Assembly or Assemblies to take place from 2026 onwards. This period integrates the fruits of the Universal Synod For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission, held in Rome in October 2023.

Focus on the Irish Synodal Pathway
After completing consultations for the Universal Synodal Pathway, the Irish Church continues its own process of prayer, consultation, and discernment, deepening reflection on the findings and preparing for national assemblies.

Submission of the Irish Catholic Church’s Document to the Holy See
The Irish Bishops’ Conference submits the national synthesis to the Holy See as part of the worldwide consultation for the Synod on Synodality.

Vigil of Corpus Christi – National Pre-Synodal Meeting
A national meeting is held on the Vigil of Corpus Christi to finalise and present the findings of the Irish Church before submission to Rome.

Day of Prayer for the Synod on Synodality in all Parishes
Parishes across Ireland dedicate Pentecost as a day of prayer for the Synod and for the Irish Synodal Pathway, invoking the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

Diocesan Synthesis to be Submitted
Each diocese, following consultation and a synodal gathering, submits its synthesis document to the Irish Bishops’ Conference.

Diocesan Consultation and Listening
Dioceses across Ireland hold local consultations and listening sessions for the Universal Synod on Synodality.

Diocesan Opening of the Universal Synod on Synodality
Each diocese in Ireland formally opens the Synod, beginning the local phase of listening and discernment.

Pope Francis Launches the Universal Synod on Synodality
Pope Francis inaugurates the global consultation process leading to the 2023 Synod, calling the Church to listening, dialogue, and encounter.

Initial Phase of the Irish Synodal Pathway Instituted
Irish Bishops establish a Synodal Steering Committee and Task Group. Dr Nicola Brady is appointed chair, with Andrew O’Callaghan and Bishop Brendan Leahy as vice-chairs. The initial focus is on prayer, listening, consultation, and discernment.

Submissions Phase for the Irish Synodal Pathway
During this period, bishops invite submissions from the faithful on models and approaches for the national synodal process.

Synodal Pathway of the Catholic Church in Ireland Announced
Irish Bishops announce a five-year Synodal Pathway leading towards a National Synodal Assembly or Assemblies.

For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission
Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, General Secretary of the Synod of Bishops, announces that Pope Francis has convoked the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops to be held in October 2023 on the theme “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission.”