Catholics across the Archdiocese of Sydney are being called to take an active role in shaping the future of their church through the upcoming Sydney Synod 2026.
A new video featuring Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP, Auxiliary Bishop Daniel Meagher, and voices from diverse communities within the archdiocese, offers a clear and heartfelt invitation to participate in a process of spiritual renewal and practical transformation.
Sydney’s first diocesan synod in more than 80 years will be held from 30 April to 3 May 2026 and is the fruit of years of listening, discernment, and prayer.
It focuses on three profound and recurring longings from the People of God in Sydney: for more prayerful liturgies, more Christ-centred communities, and a more missionary church.
The word “synod” comes from the ancient Greek word “synodos” which when translated, means “together on the way.”
The most common form of a synod is a diocesan synod which refers to a gathering of clergy, religious and laity to consider the specific needs of a diocese or archdiocese under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Archbishop Fisher, chair of the synod working party, hopes the Sydney Synod will inspire “positive, faithful and practical ideas” to meet the deep longings of the Catholic community.
Rather than starting from scratch, it aims to build on the vibrant faith already present across Sydney. “Our proposal is not to begin again,” explains Bishop Meagher, “but to continue the journey by responding to the longings of our people.”
The Sydney Synod is part of a broader national and global journey. In response to the Fifth Plenary Council of Australia – which called on every diocese to hold a synod within five years – Sydney has undertaken a period of deep listening and reflection on the voices of its people.
Insights drawn from the Plenary Council, the universal Synod on Synodality, and the development of the archdiocese’s mission plan have revealed common hopes and challenges among the faithful. From this prayerful discernment, three Spirit-led longings have emerged, now guiding the Sydney Synod’s path forward.
Across the parishes and communities of Sydney there has been a widespread call for beautiful and reverent liturgies that foster a personal and communal encounter with God. Catholics are also yearning for Christ-centred communities where faith is not only taught but lived, in families, schools, workplaces, and neighbourhoods.
A renewed missionary spirit is also evident: people want to reach those who have never encountered Christ, welcome back the disengaged, and walk closely with the poor and marginalised. There is also a strong desire to empower young people, families, and lay leaders, equipping them to live their baptismal vocation and bring their gifts into every corner of church life.
The synod will unfold in several phases: formation to help the faithful understand its purpose and spiritual foundations; a broad consultation period for individuals and groups to submit ideas; discernment by Archbishop Fisher, a synod working party, and experts to refine proposals; and finally, the synodal gathering in 2026, where delegates will pray, deliberate, and vote on key recommendations.
Following the synod, Archbishop Fisher may issue formal declarations or decrees to ensure the outcomes lead to real and lasting renewal across the archdiocese.
Synods are deeply rooted in the life of the church. From the Council of Jerusalem in the New Testament to the Second Vatican Council and the recent Synod on Synodality, the Church has long gathered in this way to listen to the Holy Spirit and discern how best to respond to the needs of each age.
As the late Pope Francis reminded us, synodality is not merely a method, but “the very style and mission of the church.”
This enduring tradition was reaffirmed by Pope Leo XIV in his first papal address, where he declared: “We want to be a synodal church – a church that walks, a church that always seeks peace, that always seeks charity, that always seeks to be close, especially to those who suffer”.
The Sydney Synod process is a journey marked by both grace and responsibility.
In the Archdiocese of Sydney, there is much to give thanks for: vibrant parish communities, increasing vocations, dedicated lay faithful, and a rich array of initiatives in evangelisation, pastoral care, and social outreach.
Yet the synod calls every Catholic to a deeper engagement — to listen with fresh ears, reflect with open hearts, and contribute courageously to the ongoing mission of Christ in our city and suburbs.
All are encouraged to participate through prayer, submission of ideas, and regional gatherings. Three regional consultation sessions will be held:
- Holy Family Parish, Menai – Saturday morning (9am–12pm), 30 August
- St Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney – Tuesday evening (6-9pm), 14 October
- All Saints Parish, Liverpool – Thursday evening (6-9pm), 16 October
Online and paper submission options will also be available later this year.
“God calls on all of us,” says Archbishop Fisher, “to share our gifts, proclaim His Gospel, and demonstrate Christ-like love.”
By engaging in the synod process, Sydney Catholics have a unique opportunity to help shape a church that is more prayerful, Christ-centred and mission-oriented “for our good and the good of all God’s holy church”.
To view the video and learn more about the Sydney Synod 2026, visit: www.sydneycatholic.org/sydney-synod
