Archbishop Scicluna to participate in the second session of the Synod of Bishops at the Vatican

Archbishop Charles Scicluna has left Malta today for the Vatican to continue contributing to the Synod of Bishops on Synodality, which will be held from 2^nd to 27^th October 2024. He is one of 464 participants worldwide who will have the opportunity to listen, reflect and pray on the Church’s pastoral mission.

This second and final session of the Synod builds on last year’s first session, focusing on three key questions: how the Church can serve more fully as a sign and instrument of union with God and of the unity of all humanity; how it can share its gifts in service to the Gospel more effectively; and what processes, structures and institutions are needed in a truly missionary and synodal Church.

Archbishop Scicluna said: “The Church does not belong to bishops and priests; the Church is all of us. The Synod is an opportunity for us, as members of the Church, to be instruments of unity, actively participate in its life and become fearless missionaries of Christ.”

The evening before the Synod begins, Pope Francis will preside over a penitential vigil at St Peter’s Basilica. The Pope has invited everyone, especially young people, to help spread the message of Jesus among their peers and contribute to the Church’s mission. During this time of prayer and confession, three individuals will share their personal experiences about the sins of abuse, war and indifference to the growing migration crisis. 

On 9^th and 16^th October, the Synod will host four theological and pastoral forums for the first time. During these meetings, the public and journalists are invited to engage in dialogues on the role of the People of God, the authority of the bishop in a synodal Church, the relations between the local and universal Church, and the relationship between the Pope’s authority and the collaborative decision-making process of the Synod of Bishops.

On 11^th October, participants will commemorate the 62^nd anniversary of the official opening of the Second Vatican Council with an ecumenical prayer service at the Square of the First Roman Martyrs, next to St Peter’s Basilica.

For more information visit synod.va.