Synod on Synodality

Ever since we began hearing about the Synod on Synodality, we have been informed that Pope Francis vision is to hear the voice of the People of God. As he typically does, our Holy Father reminds us that we are not to ignore the voices of those who are not physically in the pews in the Church but remain in the peripheries. There are many reasons that people do not cross the threshold of the Church building: transportation issues, work schedules, illness, or difficult family situations. There are also those who may be homeless or living in their vehicles, who then feel embarrassed or unwelcome in the Church. Some may have been hurt or are struggling their faith. Whatever the reason, they are part of the Church, and their voice should also be heard.

A parish should serve all souls in their geographic boundaries, and that includes any hospitals, detention centers, migrant camps, or where Catholics may reside. Some dioceses have made it a point to have their parishes serve those communities and take the Synod to them. By choosing one or two questions for discussion and gathering people in their own location, we can help them feel comfortable, and that their voices are important, and will be heard.

Our diocesan website has several tools that can be used to take the Synod to the peripheries in your parish. There are two versions of our Tri-Fold Brochure: one is a general format, but the newer one has the link and a QR code that directs one to the Individual Synod Response Form. These brochures can be used for people who are unable to attend a listening session, or do not feel comfortable attending one. We encourage parishioners to take one or two and give them to people they personally know who is currently distant from the Church. This could be an adult child, grandchild, neighbor, coworker, or a friend. As their voice is important too, we encourage them to submit their reflections using this form.

Help us share the good news of the Synod! Share pictures of your parish Synod experiences on social media and tag #synodDOF. Want to share your parish story? Contact Rosie to submit a short article on your parish Synod experience in future Diocese of Fresno newsletters!

For more information on the Synod, please contact anyone on our Diocesan Synod Committee, listed below.

Cheryl Sarkisian, [email protected]
Rosie Hernandez, [email protected]
Deacon Edgar Briseno, [email protected]
Sister Kathleen Drilling, [email protected]