The Diocese of Crookston will host its first Synod listening session Saturday at St. Bernard, Thief River Falls.

“You know what’s working and what needs work in your parish and the Diocese of Crookston,” the diocese posted on its Facebook page. “This is your opportunity to help shape the future of our local Church! Bishop Andrew Cozzens is seeking your feedback to help discern and establish pastoral priorities for the diocese.” 

“We will pray together for the Synod on Synodality and our diocese,” the diocese said. “We will discuss what’s working as well as our challenges and opportunities. All are welcome; no RSVP is necessary.” 

The event will take place at St. Bernard, Thief River Falls, on Saturday, Feb. 12 from 9 a.m. to noon.

Last Oct.10, Pope Francis declared a “synod on synodality,” which is formally titled “Synod 2021-2023: For a Synodal Church.”  The two-year process calls for bishops all around the world to consult with monks, nuns, parishioners, and lay people to bring more openness and transparency to the church, according to The Conversation. 

The bishops will convene in 2023 and discuss how to move forward as a church that “journeys together.”

The word “synod” is from the Greek word for “coming together.” 

The synodal tradition for the church began with ancient Christian leaders who would come together to discuss and pray about issues that affected the whole Church. By the 16th century, these gatherings were happening infrequently. One goal of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) was to emphasize the role of bishops as leaders of their communities and encourage more communication and cooperation between bishops, The Conversation said.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has developed a prayer for the Synod, which you can read here.