Participants in the 2024 Synod of Bishops will gather in Rome on September 29, coinciding with the Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, has called for prayers as they begin their retreat on September 30.

The theme of Synod 2021-2024 is “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, Mission.” The focus will be on missionary discipleship, a mission given to all baptized individuals. Cardinal Tobin emphasized that "synodality" is an ancient concept addressing contemporary challenges by promoting unity and shared journeying within the Church.

Pope Francis views synodality as integral to the Church’s identity and mission. He stated that it requires spiritual conversion for lasting results: “My hope is that following this Synod, synodality may endure as a permanent mode of working within the Church.”

Synodality involves listening to one another and sharing each other’s experiences while trusting in the Holy Spirit's guidance. Participants are encouraged to pray for grace during their retreat to serve as leaders committed to communion and mission.

The Instrumentum Laboris document outlines this vision: “This vision of the Church – a pilgrim people in every part of the world seeking synodal conversion for the sake of mission – guides us as we move forward on this path with joy and hope.”

Cardinal Tobin concluded by invoking intercession from holy angels and guidance from the Holy Spirit for discerning God’s will for His Church.