Recently Pope Francis announced that there would be a worldwide synod exploring ways in which the universal church can improve its ability to listen to the faithful. The theme for the synod is “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission.” The synodal initiative will begin at the diocesan level. We are aware the Holy Spirit continues to guide the Church as he has guided her in that upper room at Pentecost. Pope Francis reminds us that we continue to reflect on our life and mission so to better impact the world and increase our ability to encounter Christ. The purpose of the synod is not to produce more documents. It is intended to inspire people to dream about the Church we are called to be, to make people’s hope flourish, to stimulate trust, to bind up wounds, to weave new and deeper relationships, to learn from one another, to build bridges, to enlighten minds, warm hearts and restore strength to our hands for our common mission.