The Diocese of Providence is reminding the faithful that time is running out if they want to take a survey as part of the Synod process. It also invited all to fill out the survey.

“Last Chance! Take the Diocese of Providence's Synod survey to anonymously share your experience of the Catholic Church,” it wrote in a posting on Facebook. “We want to hear from you! Survey closes this Saturday, April 30. Take in English or en español at https://provd.io/3ELT5Ud" 

The synodal process was announced in October by Pope Francis, when he declared a “synod on synodality” that is formally titled “Synod 2021-2023: For a Synodal Church,” The Conversation says. The whole process will last for two years as it represents an expansion of the “Synod of Bishops.” This year, all bishops are being asked to consult with monks, nuns, parishioners, and laypeople to gather feedback on how to bring more openness and transparency to the Church. The bishops will convene in 2023 and discuss how to move forward as a church that “journeys together.” 

The venture is called a “Synod” because the word comes from a Greek word meaning “coming together” or “traveling together.” 

The Synodal tradition for the Church began when ancient Christian leaders would meet to discuss and pray about issues that affected the whole Church, The Conversation explains. By the 16th century, these gatherings were happening only rarely. The Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) named as a goal that it wanted to emphasize the role of bishops as leaders of their communities and encourage more communication and cooperation between bishops.

The pope tweeted his thoughts on the importance of taking part in the discussions, tweeting: ”Participating in a #Synod means taking the same path as the Word made flesh: following in his footsteps, listening to his word and the words of others, discovering with amazement that the Holy Spirit always surprises us with fresh paths and new ways of speaking.”