Synod 2021-23 Update | 26 November 2021

We are pleased to let you know that the time frame for the Listening Stage of the Synod in our diocese has been extended. Submissions can now be made up until 31 March 2022.

This update provides more detail about this extension and how you can join in this journey over the coming months. 

Extended Time Frame

Recently, the deadline for the local phase for the Synod 2021-23 was extended by the General Secretariat for the Synod of Bishops. The New Zealand Catholic Bishops have indicated that the timeline for the synodal process in Aotearoa will also be extended. In response, we have been working on how this extension will impact on our own diocesan process.

The Secretariat has ‘listened’ to our concerns about the short time frame for local discernment and we as a diocese are responding in kind.  This is synodality in action and we are delighted, so:

The previous deadline of 30 November 2021 has been extended and submissions can now be made up until 31 March 2022.

At the same time, we want to maintain the momentum that has been gained thus far. Any groups or submissions that may already be organised for the rest of the month are strongly encouraged to continue as planned.

Hopefully, this extra time will allow for input from people who we most need to hear from including those who are baptised but disengaged from our communities for a variety of reasons, our young people and groups from diverse cultural backgrounds.

We are still working to confirm the finer details of how this extension will impact our diocesan process and more details will be announced soon - keep an eye on our website.

How to participate as a group >
How to participate as an individual >

The Fundamental Question

The Synod poses the following fundamental question:

A synodal Church, in announcing the Gospel, “journeys together.”

How is this “journeying together” happening today in your particular Church? What steps does the Spirit invite us to take in order to grow in our “journeying together”?

Click here to begin reflecting on this question >
How to make a submission >

There is a lot going on

We are well aware that this listening and consultation is happening at a time of change, disruption and end of year events. With that in mind, we are pleased to be able to extend the deadline for submissions so that over the coming months more people are able to join in the process.

Thank you for all you have already done to engage in this synodal process thus far. We look forward to seeing the opportunities that arise from this extension unfold over the coming months and continuing on this journey together.

Diocesan Synodal Team
Teresa Edwards, Isabella McCafferty, Fr Simon Story & Nick Wilson