White Mass & Mass to Launch the Synod (E-Pistle Message)

Next week, I invite you to join me at two very important celebrations. First, we celebrate the annual White Mass on Oct. 19 at 6 p.m. at St. Mary Cathedral in Austin. We take this time to bless and pray in gratitude for our medical professionals who have been called to exercise their vocation during this difficult time in history.

Next, we join the Holy Father, Pope Francis, in launching the diocesan phase of the XVI Ordinary Synod of Bishops with Mass on Oct. 21 at St. Mary Cathedral starting at 6:30 p.m. The Synod, which concentrates on the concept of synodality, was approved by Pope Francis with a goal to more actively engage the whole church through a process of “listening and discernment.” The key concept of this “listening” or “synodal” process is found in the Greek origin of the word “synod”, comprising “syn” (with or together with) and “odos” (path or way), meaning “journeying together along the same path.”

During this journey, I invite you to be companions and coworkers in the vineyard. Your voice, guided by the Holy Spirit, will allow me and church leaders to better understand the challenges facing the faithful.

Together as the Body of Christ, we are called to give thanks, to walk with one another and share the graces given to us. May you have a blessed week; may you see Christ in those who cross your path; and may our Lord, through the intercession of his Holy Mother Mary during this month of the rosary, continue to bless the Diocese of Austin.

Read the full E-Pistle