Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

Pope Francis has announced that a Synod of Bishops will take place in October 2023, called “For a synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission.”

The official opening of this multiphase Synod will take place in Rome on October 9 and 10, 2021. The first phase (October 2021 to April 2022) will then begin in Dioceses and Episcopal Conferences around the world.

In solidarity with the Holy Father’s desire that we walk together in communion to pursue a common mission by participating in this Synod, the Archdiocese of Vancouver will celebrate an Opening Mass at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 24, at Holy Rosary Cathedral.

For our local Church, this Synodal Process is a new opportunity to walk together, listen to one another in charity, and to hear what is on the hearts of our brothers and sisters. It is a chance to gather in community, to reach out to those who may have fallen by the wayside, and to ask the Holy Spirit to guide not only the universal Church, but also our Archdiocese. 

Plans are underway on how this listening and discerning process will unfold over the next several months. Parishes, ecclesial movements, lay associations, and all the faithful will have an opportunity to have a say. I encourage all groups and ministries in the Archdiocese to invite as many as possible to participate in the Archdiocesan Opening Mass on October 24, to mark the beginning of our journey together.

It has been a long time since many of us have been able to gather at our beloved Cathedral, and I pray you will consider joining me on Sunday, October 24. Please know that all health protocols remain in place for the safety and well being of those who will attend.

With cordial greetings and the assurance of my prayers, I remain

Sincerely yours in Christ, 

+ J. Michael Miller, CSB
Archbishop of Vancouver