The Archdiocese of Sydney has held two formation nights ahead of the Sydney Synod, which will take place from 30 April to 3 May.
Synod working party members Bishop Daniel Meagher, Sr Anastasia Reeves OP, and Sydney Centre for Evangelisation director Daniel Ang addressed the gatherings at St Mary’s Cathedral College Hall, outlining the aims of the upcoming synod.
The sessions focused on what a synod is, ecclesial spirituality and discernment, and the specific goals of the Sydney Synod. Open only to synod members, the formation nights sought to answer key questions about the process.
Quoting the final document of the Synod on Synodality (2021–2024), Bishop Meagher outlined the core vision of the gathering as the “walking together of Christians with Christ towards God’s kingdom oriented towards mission.”
He said the Sydney Synod will explore three “longings”: more prayerful liturgies, more Christ-centred parishes and communities, and a stronger focus on mission.
The archbishop has selected 18 proposals – six under each longing – for discussion. Bishop Meagher noted that implementing them would take time.
“Our Synod is just a part of a process that will go on for 30 or 40 years,” he said.
Sr Reeves emphasised that every member had a meaningful role in the synod.
“We’re not ticking boxes and just making sure we have enough people to make it look like we’re interested in what you think,” she said.
“You are here because we want your gifts, your wisdom, your experience – even if you are younger – to be part of this Synod.”
She said discernment would be central, with members asked to choose between several strong proposals for the archdiocese’s future.
Sr Reeves said authentic discernment requires openness to the Holy Spirit in seeking what best serves the common good of the church.
Ang outlined the synod process, which will span three days and include two full days of discussion and collaboration.
He said the 18 proposals would translate the three longings into practical priorities, including stronger formation for parish educators and improved training and structure for music at Mass.
“It’s really about trying to hear all the voices and to continue to foster the second spring of faith that we’re seeing in many parts of the West,” he said.
At the first formation night, Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP asked how success would be measured. Bishop Meagher responded that the fruits of the synod may not be immediately visible, but would be seen if parishes and communities begin to live out the three longings.
