The term was chosen by Pope Francis, whose papacy has often focused on evangelization. With synodality, the Pope is carefully placing evangelization into the hands of the Church’s people.

From now until 2023, the pursuit of synodality calls Catholics to get together, to talk & listen, & to love & learn in a deliberate effort to move closer to Christ & the Church.

Synodality is a style, a culture, a way of thinking & being, that reflects the truth that the Church is led by the Holy Spirit who enables everyone to offer their own contribution to the Church's life. This synod process seeks to “strengthen cooperation” in all areas of the Church’s mission, to enhance communion, participation & mission.

While “Synodality is an expression of the Church’s nature, her form, style & mission” (Pope Francis, 18 September 2021), the Church in our day lacks the habit & practice of synodality. This is what Pope Francis invites us to examin & discern for the future.

Although previous synods also began with wide consultations in the form of questionnaires, this is the first time that everyone has been directly asked to engage in an exercise of listening at the level of parishes & dioceses.