Synodality - Implementation Phase

Synodality in Action: The Implementation Phase (2025–2028)

We are now in the Implementation Phase of the Synod on Syndoality that was initiated by Pope Francis in 2021.  This phase focuses on putting the Final Document's conclusions into practice by transforming church culture, structures, and relationships. This stage follows the initial consultation and celebratory phases, aiming for practical, local, and concrete application of synodality at all church levels.

Final Document

The Final Document is the point of reference for the implementation phase.  The final document of the Synod on Synodality is titled "For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, Mission".  Approved on October 26, 2024, by the Second Session of the XVI Ordinary General Assembly, this 52-page document concludes a four-year consultation process. Pope Francis immediately adopted it into his ordinary magisterium without a separate apostolic exhortation. Since the implementation phase of the Synod (2025–2028) aims to make synodality a tangible reality in the Church by putting the Final Document's conclusions into practice at the local level, it is important we understand what is in the Final Document.  The 52 page doument can be overwhelming.  Here is a resource from the Diocese of Westminster summarsing 'take-outs' from teh Final Document:

https://www.cbcew.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/Synod-Take-Outs-Final-Doc.pdf

Pathways Document

The Pathways Document by the Synod Secretariat aims to offer local Churches throughout the world both a shared framework that will make it easier to walk together, and to promote the dialogue that will lead the whole Church to the Ecclesial Assembly in October 2028. It answers these questions:

• What is the implementation phase and what are its objectives?

• Who will participate in the implementation phase? What are their tasks and responsibilities?

• How to engage with the Final Document during the implementation phase?

• What method and tools can help shape our path during the implementation phase?

SCHOOL FOR SYNODALITY

The School for Synodality has several good tools and resourses to help us to simply understand synodality as well as to help implement it in our parishes.

• FAQ : What is Synodality

• Conversations In the Spirit - a How To Guide

‘Conversation in the Spirit’, or Spiritual Conversation, is an ancient practice of the Church and a key tool of Synodality. A prayerful method, it allows for space for the spirit as well as voices usually not heard and can be used for faith sharing, difficult conversations, or when lots of creativity or ideas are needed. 

• Reimagining Pastoral Councils - Starter Tool Kit

The Pastoral Council Starter Toolkit is a new resource from the School for Synodality, and offers a reimagined style of Pastoral Council, enabling us to walk with Christ along the road together, with listening and talking, and being moved by the Holy Spirit. 

• Four Steps to Practicing Synodality
  Our framework for developing new synodal processes and habits based on Acts 15 (the Council of Jerusalem) as they (1) encountered a changing world, (2) listened to all the voices, (3) discerned the Holy Spirit and (4) moved to action. This framework can be applied to any group making decisions or discerning the future, and we have provided a plan so you can get started straight away.