Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., D.D. Archbishop | Archdiocese of Newark website
At the end of his second week at the Synod of Bishops in Rome, Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, shared insights on his study group, which includes eleven bishops, clergy, and laypeople. Cardinal Tobin noted that this week's discussions revolved around "relations"—including our relationship with Christ and each other, as well as how to collaborate within a synodal and missionary Church.
The Synod's second week highlighted themes such as dialogue and the Church's missionary identity. Discussions centered on prayer and listening. A significant focus was on the role of women and the inclusion of marginalized communities like LGBTQ+ faithful. While controversial issues such as women's ordination and blessings for same-sex couples were addressed in separate groups, the main emphasis remained on fostering a more synodal Church grounded in listening and discernment.