In advance of the first assembly of the Universal Synod, which begins on 4 October 2023 (the last day of the Season of Creation), an ecumenical prayer vigil is taking place in Rome in the presence of Pope Francis and representatives of different Churches, to unite us all in praise and silence, in listening to the Word. In extending this invitation to Together | Gathering of the People of God, Pope Francis reminded us that ‘the path to Christian unity and the path of synodal conversion of the Church are linked’. In a special way, young people from across the world, from all Church backgrounds, have been invited to Rome and have been welcomed for a weekend of sharing, to journey together as the people of God to pray for the work of the Synod and the prayer of Our Lord Jesus Christ that one day we would all be one (John 17:21).
Of course, not everyone has to go to Rome to be united in prayer. As part of this international celebration, we are encouraging parishes to use the Season of Creation River Ritual as a moment to gather by a river or stream locally, to celebrate together, to welcome all and to pray; to hear creation’s song and to hear creation’s cry. ‘Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!’ (Amos 5:24).
Let’s journey together
with other Christian Churches
with the people of God in all their diversity
with those who hear the cry of the earth
with those on the margins of our societies
with young adults
with people of all generations
with all who are seeking meaning in life
This resource has been compiled by the Laudato Si’ Working Group of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference in conjunction with the Irish Synodal Pathway, with special thanks to Noirin Lynch for compiling the River Ritual. You can download the resource by clicking on the image below. You can also learn more about the Together | Gathering of the People of God by clicking on its image too!
