Images of Synodality

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

I have been back in northern New Jersey for more than two weeks now, but I am still processing the experiences of last month’s Synod working sessions. It was truly a first-hand learning experience that involved prayerful listening and respectful dialogue among women and men, clergy and lay faithful with a deep desire to help the Church we love grow in the Holy Spirit so that we might be better witnesses to our risen Lord.

Toward the conclusion of the final week, I offered some video reflections about this deeply spiritual journey. In case you didn’t see this, click here for a video and transcription for your consideration.

During the coming months, I will share further reflections on the Synod Report and on the conversations that will be taking place throughout the year in our archdioceses and in dioceses throughout the world in preparation for the concluding session of this historic Synod in October 2024. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to guide us as we strive to discern God’s will for our Church.

Next Thursday, November 23, is Thanksgiving Day.  Please know that you are on my Gratitude List and that I thank God for you every day, but especially on this day when we publicly express our gratitude as a nation blessed in so many ways by a generous and merciful God. 

Sincerely yours in Christ the Redeemer, 

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R. 
Archbishop of Newark