Testimonies from the Synodal Teams Jubilee
What is Synodality for you?
In October 2025, the School for Synodality attended the Jubilee of Synodal Teams at the Vatican. It was a fantastic opportunity to hear from keynote speakers (including Pope Leo), attend workshops on various aspects and topics, and be in fellowship with one another.
Meeting so many other synodally-minded people from around the world was exciting - the spirit moves in all manner of countries and contexts! Asking them “what is synodality for you?’ revealed a myriad of approaches, expressions and success stories - showcasing a rich diversity that ultimately leads us to closer communion with Christ, and one another.
We hear from:
Cardinal Mario Grech, the Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops on the aims of synodality - to help humanity to encounter Jesus
Noah Walczuch, a Seminarian from Germany, is a member of the synodal team in the Regensburg Diocese. He reflects on how using the word 'synodality' upfront can be a barrier, but through a gentle introduction to the Conversation in the Spirit method he found a positive response
Trisha Pardo from California in the United States is new to Synodality, and yet realised her youth ministry is already using synodal methods and "the Lord works beautifully through it".
István Gégény from Hungary shares his enthusiasm for the growth of synodality in his country, and how this renewal of the Catholic Church is not just for Catholics but all the people of Hungary.
Deacon Geert de Cubber, from the Diocese of Ghent in Belgium, reflects on the positive affect of leading Diocese-level councils in a synodal way, and how this can make a difference on a local level.
Jacob Williamson from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, United States, reflects on how synodal methods can be used to improve the relationship between the 'established' and 'emerging' (youth) Church. He recently brought together hundreds of bishops, students, educators for Conversations in the Spirit together, with great success.
As well as a few others who share ‘One Word’ of what Synodality means to them!
