SYNOD is a new process for the Archdiocese. It is intended to help the Church assess her position in our country and in the world, celebrate the journey and chart a way forward in a rapidly changing world.

People in general have become less interested in religion as they seek, and in their estimation, find fulfillment in materialism, power etc. Jesus and his Church moved from being the center of people’s lives to the periphery. Today, Jesus is presented as one of the many ways of finding fulfillment.

The family, which was the center of society and the institution that was at the very core of the Church’s life, today is in shambles. The current models of family are to a large extent incompatible with the Church’s vision. In many circles the church is considered irrelevant.

We find ourselves caught up in a culture of death. Human life means nothing. Ideologies, material things are more highly valued than human life and dignity.

Synod needs us to come together and openly and honestly share our ideas to help our Church chart the way forward.

Synod current’s focus is on the following Commissions:

• Catechesis – Elena Arajuo
• Catholic Education – Carole Smart
• Family Life – Kirk de Souza
• Social Justice – Dawn Seepersad
• Communications – Michaela Fraser
• Youth – Matthew Martinez and Meiling Lee Wohing
• Evangelisation – Linda Besson
• Stewardship – Established since 1996