A Synod - the word means “journeying together” - is a formal assembly of representatives of the whole diocesan community: clergy, religious and lay people. Through the Synod process, which involves collaboration, discernment, governance and communion, the Bishop seeks advice on matters concerning the good of the whole diocese. Declarations and decrees are promulgated which set the direction for the diocese in the form of a Diocesan Pastoral Plan. So, Diocesan Synods are important instruments and occasions for effecting renewal.
The last Diocesan Synod was held in 1992/93 and since then, parishes within the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle have been journeying together through assemblies and gatherings in which they have been discerning the voice of the Spirit.
Bishop William Wright issued a decree convoking a new Diocesan Synod, the first since 1992/93 on 8th August 2019, on the Feast of Mary MacKillop.
The theme of the Synod (2019 – 2021) is “Building the Kingdom of God together”.
The Diocesan Synod to be held in three sessions (2019, 2020 & 2021) will invite people to carefully discern together what the spirit is saying to the Church of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle and agree on common goals and actions for the coming years.
Celebration
Responses Report
Celebration responses
Guest Speaker Videos
Part 1: Fr Richard Lennan
Part 2: Fr Richard Lennan
Part 1: Lana Turvey-Collins
Part 2: Lana Turvey-Collins
Handouts
Handout - Eucharist and Mission - Richard Lennan - Mission and Evangelising - 23 November 2019
Handout - Mission - Richard Lennan - Mission and Evangelising - 23 November 2019
Handout - Ursula Stephens - A joyful, hope-filled and servant community - 23 November 2019
Handout - Inclusive participatory and synodal - Sr Lauretta Baker - 23 November 2019
PowerPoints
Keynote-Richard-Lennan-23-November-2019
A Joyful, Hope-filled and Servant Community - Ursula Stephens 23 November 2019
Missionary and Evangelising - Richard Lennan - 23 November 2019
Second Session of Diocesan Synod – Saturday 22 May 2021
More information to come
Please CLICK HERE to submit your response to the Diocesan Synod - Listening and Discernment Response Survey.
Important dates:
Diocesan Synod Discernment – 22 May 2021
Diocesan Synod Implementation – 21 November 2021
Retreat Days – Tuesday’s 9 June, 16 June, 21 July, 28 July 2020