The Synod is a process of spiritual discernment, of ecclesial discernment, that unfolds in adoration, in prayer and in dialogue with the word of God.” (Pope Francis’ homily at the Opening Mass for the Synod, Oct. 10, 2021)

The Archdiocese of Atlanta has rooted the Synod process in prayer. We ask you to pray for the process itself and pray as you participate in it. Each listening session will be infused with prayer.

There is one particular prayer the Holy Father has asked us to use during this time, the Adsumus Sancte Spiritus prayer. “Every session of the Second Vatican Council began with the prayer Adsumus Sancte Spiritus, the first word of the Latin original meaning, “We stand before You, Holy Spirit,” which has been historically used at Councils, Synods and other Church gatherings for hundreds of years, being attributed to Saint Isidore of Seville (c. 560 – 4 April 636).  As we are called to embrace this synodal path of the Synod 2021-2023, this prayer invites the Holy Spirit to operate within us so that we may be a community and a people of grace. For the Synod 2021-2023, we propose to use this simplified version, so that any group or liturgical assembly can pray more easily.” (from the Vatican’s synod site).

We ask you to offer this traditional prayer throughout the two years. Parishes and organizations can order prayer cards to distribute or you can download and print individual prayer cards. In addition to this prayer, during this time of Eucharistic Renewal, please consider spending time before the Lord Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament of the Eucharist and praying for the Synod process.

Prayer Recommendations:

  • Prayer to the Holy Spirit – Pray this traditional prayer to the Holy Spirit, adapted for this Synod, as a family, individually, or with your parish.
  • In this time of Eucharistic Renewal, please consider spending time before the Lord Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament of the Eucharist and praying for the Synod process.

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