Synod of Bishops to review liturgical issues, emphasize Sunday Mass

Published: 2005-09-26

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI presides in October over the Synod of Bishops on the Eucharist, an assembly that will review liturgical issues, emphasize the importance of Sunday Mass and mark the close of the "Year of the Eucharist." More than 250 bishops from every continent will attend the Oct. 2-23 synod to discuss the theme "The Eucharist: Source and Summit of the Life and Mission of the Church." Earlier this year, Pope Benedict shortened the assembly and changed the format to include more group discussion and less speech-giving in response to long-standing criticism of the synod process. The synod will take an in-depth look at many pastoral aspects of the Eucharist, then formulate conclusions that are passed on to the pope for possible use in a later document. The synod's function has always been advisory, and many observers will be watching the October session to see if the new pope expands that role or gives the synod additional responsibilities.

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