Dear Brothers and Sisters

Along with the other bishops of Pennsylvania, I give thanks to Almighty God for the progress our country has made in curbing the coronavirus pandemic. Each of us has felt the impact of COVID-19 in many ways as individuals and families, among friends and at work. This has been a time of hardship and struggle, of separation and isolation that has impacted our lives of faith as well. Our Lord Jesus has been near to us throughout this difficult period, especially when we encounter Him in the Holy Eucharist.

The entire Catholic Church is called to participate in “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission.”

The Synod opened in Rome on October 9, followed by the opening in each diocese on October 17. This process is calling together all the people of God – clergy, religious and laity – to listen, dialogue, discern and pray. The goal of the Synod is not to create a new pastoral plan, but rather to be present with each other, learn from each other, and grow closer to the Lord and His Church.