The Bishop of the Diocese of Broken Bay, Most Rev Anthony Randazzo DD JCL, has announced
the framework for a 2027 Diocesan Synod.
The Synod will be formally convoked by Bishop Anthony Randazzo at Pentecost this year, which
is also the 40th anniversary of the Diocese.
Clergy, religious and laity will discuss important matters relevant to the specific needs of the
Diocese of Broken Bay under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
“The Synod will be far more than an event,” Bishop Randazzo said.
“It is a spiritual journey of listening, discernment, and shared mission for the whole Diocese.
“A time of prayer, reflection, and engagement with the People of God across parishes, schools,
communities, and agencies.”
Bishop Randazzo emphasised that synods “are not new”.
“They are not an innovation of the modern Church, nor a departure from Catholic faith or
practice. Rather, synods are an ancient and enduring expression of how the Church lives,
discerns, and carries out her mission, both at the universal level and within the local Church.
“Synodal gatherings have always been moments when the community of the Church pauses,
listens, prays, and discerns how best to remain faithful to Jesus Christ and to proclaim His
Gospel in changing circumstances.”
Bishop Randazzo’s formal convocation of the Synod at Pentecost this year, Sunday 24 May is on
a significant Christian event. Pentecost marks the 50th and final day of the Easter season, and
commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit. It is recognised as the birth of the Church.
Preparatory work for the Synod has already begun with the Bishop announcing a Synod
Preparatory Commission which will serve from February to Easter this year.
The Commission, comprising Clergy, Diocesan leaders, and Parishioners, is tasked with
designing the processes that will guide the Diocese towards the formal convocation.
Its responsibilities include developing the overall timeline, shaping consultation and formation
pathways to provide broad and genuine participation across the Diocese, and a foundational
structure for the Synod Assembly between 30 April and 2 May 2027.
Updates on the Synod journey will be shared through diocesan communication channels as the
process unfolds.