Originally published at National Catholic Register
Following the directive of the final Synod on Synodality document, the initiative proposes a series of recommendations for structural changes to be implemented across the archdiocese in the coming years, from new small groups at parishes to alliances between parishes.
Cardinal Joseph Tobin of Newark, New Jersey, in a letter addressed to clergy, religious and faithful, announced the launch of a multiyear “pastoral conversion” plan for the archdiocese based on the framework proposed by the final document produced by the Synod on Synodality.
“Pastoral conversion requires nothing more or less than our willingness to be open to what God’s word is saying to us and to listen to one another,” Cardinal Tobin wrote, adding: “The term that best describes the journey that we are traveling together now is ‘synodality.’”
Following a multiyear process of the Synod on Synodality, which began in 2021, Pope Francis adopted the final document, “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, Mission,” in October 2024.
The 52-page document, approved by 355 synod members in attendance, outlines substantial proposals for Church renewal, including expansion of women’s leadership roles, greater lay participation in decision-making, and significant structural reforms, including strengthening pastoral councils at parish and diocesan levels.
“Synodal
