Seeking Expressions
of Interest
for 2026 Synod
Table Facilitators
The 2026 Archdiocesan Synod is significant gathering of members of parishes, schools and communities in the Archdiocese of Adelaide who will discern important actions and commitments for the future of our local Church. Dialogue and discernment processes called Conversations in the Spirit will be used at the 2026 Synod to assist the members work small groups. Table Facilitators are needed to guide these processes.
We are seeking Expressions of Interest for the role of Table Facilitators.
Note: Table Facilitators are a volunteer role and will not be compensated monetarily.
Purpose of the Table Facilitator
Table Facilitators guide the Conversations in the Spirit process, create sacred, safe spaces for Synod members to encounter one another and work collaboratively to discern the voice of the Holy Spirit. The role of the Table Facilitator is critical to modeling a conversation that allows for deep listening, sharing and discernment and is inclusive and welcoming for all.
Role of the Table Facilitator
Guide: Accompany a group of 5-7 in a Conversations in the Spirit
Welcome: Create a welcoming and prayerful space. Establish order of speakers.
Script: Follow the script for introduction, three rounds of sharing, and evaluation.
Guidelines: Keep the conversation on track using ground rules.
Timekeeping: Be sure that each participant adheres to the time limits.
Silence: Observe times of prayerful silence between rounds.
Note-taking: Using note-taking function, scribe open notes during final round only.
Skills and Experience
Table Facilitators should have the following skills and experience:
Experience in leading/ facilitating small group conversations.
Understanding of discernment and decision-making as a spiritual process.
Ability to guide conversations without interjecting your own ideas or experiences.
Preferred but not required:
Experience with Conversations in the Spirit or similar group discernment processes. (Facilitators will receive training in this method)
AvailabilitY
13 March 2026, 7-9pm Facilitator Training Session 1
14 March 2026, 9am – 4pm Synod Member Retreat Day
23 May 2027, 10am – 12pm Facilitator Training Session 2
30 May 2026, 9am – 4pm Synod Session 1
27 June 2026, 9am – 4pm Synod Session 2
Expressions of
Interest FORM
DEADLINE: Monday, 15 December 2025
SYNOD MEMBERSHIP
60 lay delegates will be chosen from across the Archdiocese representing the people of God and that ‘truly reflects the entire portion of the people of God which constitutes the Diocese, taking account of the different regions of the diocese, of social conditions and professions, and of the part played in the apostolate by the members, whether individually or in association with others.’ (Can. §512.2). Lay delegates refer to women and men, including members of religious congregations/institutes, who or not ordained clergy (deacons, priests, bishops).
A commitment of the following will be required:
Attendance at the preparation gathering (14 March 2026) for members and the 2 sessions of the Diocesan Synod (29, 30 May; 27 June 2026). Members must be available to attend all 3 sessions in their entirety. The Archdiocese is committed to supporting members to make this experience accessible (e.g. travel and accommodation support, child minding support etc).
To participate, where possible in, the formation process that support the preparation for the Diocesan Synod.
To dialogue and consult with parishes, schools and communities in your designated region.
To look at the bigger picture, not a personal standpoint, for the entirety of the people of God in this Archdiocese.
A commitment to the implementation phase post the sessions of the Diocesan Synod.
Potential Members are asked to consider the extent of responsibility before completing the Expression of Interest application for the Diocesan Synod. Information around the Synod can be found below and also through the Synod Directory: SYNOD26-Directory-CAoA.pdf
HOW WILL MEMBERS BE SELECTED?
An Archdiocesan selection committee comprised of members of the Diocesan Pastoral Council will ensure the aspect of the Archdiocese are adequately represented. This Archdiocesan selection committee will work with individual regions in this process.
CLERGY
A separate membership selection process for clergy will be shared soon. Clergy are included in the list of required members as outlined in the Synod Directory.
If you would like to discuss further please reach out to either:
SARAH MOFFATT
PETER BIERER