Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The late Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, left a significant legacy that includes a strong focus on synodality. This church process emphasizes journeying together through listening and discernment with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Synodality became a hallmark of his papacy in its final years.

In 2021, Pope Francis launched the Synod on Synodality titled “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission.” The process culminated with the publication and ratification of its final document in October 2024. Unlike traditional synods reserved for bishops, this initiative sought input from all members of the church, including laypeople.

Jane Cruthirds, director of mission formation for Sacred Heart Schools, described the synod as Pope Francis' "opus," reflecting his life’s practice of humility and listening to others. Richard “Tink” Guthrie, former vice chancellor and synod coordinator for the archdiocese, noted that local Catholics had varied reactions to the synod's discussions.

To kick off the synodal process, Pope Francis invited Catholics worldwide to share their experiences and hopes with their local churches. In Louisville alone, more than 2,000 local Catholics participated in 120 listening sessions held in 2022. Additional sessions were conducted in 2024.

Guthrie explained that these sessions allowed people to freely express themselves: “Nothing was off the table.” He emphasized that while some found this liberating, others were uncomfortable with certain topics being discussed equally. However, he clarified that Pope Francis never suggested altering Catholic dogma or doctrine; rather, it was about understanding different perspectives without changing views.

Cruthirds observed growing interest in synodality within the Archdiocese of Louisville since those sessions. She facilitated conversations during the local phase and continues to apply synodal practices in her work today.

Epiphany Church is one parish actively engaging with synodality through events like their three-night parish mission using roundtable discussions similar to those at Vatican sessions. Sheila Murphy from Epiphany Church highlighted that such initiatives foster listening as a way to heal divisions.

Both Cruthirds and Murphy agree that embracing synodality requires patience: “If we are to become a synodal church... it takes time,” said Murphy. Cruthirds added that "Synodality is not going to go away."

Pope Francis approved a three-year plan at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital shortly before his death to implement recommendations from the synod’s final document. His successor, Pope Leo XIV, indicated he would continue this emphasis on synodality during his first remarks as pope on May 8. Addressing thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square he stated: “We want to be a synodal church... especially close to those who suffer.”