What is this new word “Synodality” which we keep hearing? What has it to do for with us? The Greek word “Synodia”, from which it derives, means “a journey in company”. Journeys are important in the Bible– e.g. the Exodus, Jesus’ journeys with his disciples. The first Christians were know as followers of the Way. Throughout her history the Church has convened synods to discuss matters of importance. Vatican II described the Church as a “pilgrim people”.

Today Pope Francis has called for a Synod on Synodality. We are called to reflect together on the future of the Church and her mission: because all of us are the Church, the people of God, we are all invited on this journey, letting our voices be heard in order to contribute to this process. We are invited to reflect, to listen and to discern what the Holy Spirit is saying to the Church; to ponder our own experiences, to share what the Church does well, and where she needs to improve. Synodality is the process—and the ultimate aim for the Church’s future.

Everyone needs to be involved: the rich and the poor, the young and the old, the married and the single, those who are active in the church—and those who feel excluded, or on the margins. For this process to work, we have been provided with questions to discuss, which we are encouraged to adapt if necessary to our local needs. “I encourage you to take this synodal process seriously, and tell you that the Holy Spirit needs you. Listen to him by listening to yourselves and do not leave anyone our or behind” --Pope Francis.

February: Getting the Word Out
In late February a mailing will be sent out with questions, based on the Vatican recommendations, which we feel it is important to consider. These will be for your reflection, prayer and response. You will be able to respond in several ways: either by returning your reflections to the office, responding online, or by attending a large group meeting. ALL RESPONSES WILL REMAIN ANONYMOUS.

March / April / May: Listening & Discussion Sessions
At the Listening & Discussion Sessions we will have time for prayer, small group discussion (and food!) These meetings will be held once a month in March, April and May. To help with discussions, we will ask individuals to train as small group facilitators.  Join us for a  Listening and Discussion Session on Wednesday April 27th from 6pm to 8:30pm downstairs in the Saint Anthony's Church hall (there is an elevator).  Call the parish office at 208-232-1196 or email holyspirit@hscc.org to reserve your spot. 

June: Reaching out 
In June those who wish to do so will go out and talk to friends, relatives, and, for example, those who may be Catholic but do not attend church, others in nursing homes or homebound, the Veterans’ Home, St Vincent de Paul, those of other denominations or faith groups - remembering always that the Vatican documents emphasize over and over again the need to include and listen to the poor and those on the margins.

July: Reflecting on what we have learned
At the end of July our parish will reflect on what we have learned and all responses will be collated and sent to the Diocese. Again there will be total anonymity: they will know only that these come from “Holy Spirit Pocatello”, or “Pocatello”. The diocesan results will be sent on to the US Bishops.  

“The purpose is....to plant dreams draw forth prophecies and visions,
allow hope to flourish, inspire trust, bind up wounds,
weave together relationships, awaken a dawn of hope,
learn from one another, and create a bright resourcefulness
that will enlighten minds, warm hearts, give strength to our hands....”
Pope Francis

Welcome to the Journey!