A synod on synodality may seem like an oxymoron but that is what is beginning this month. Pope Francis wants to rethink how the Church is run, and a synod – an assembly of the Church – is one way he hopes to address the issue of greater lay involvement in decision-making. The synod was originally planned for October next year, but the Pope has asked every diocese to begin the first phase of consulting with the laity on 17 October. Each local church is being sent details for a consultation and listening process that lasts until next April, when the diocese will have to submit proposals to their bishops’ conference. The overall theme is “For a synodal Church: communion, participation and mission”.