Growth, undeniable tensions and “a deep desire to rebuild and strengthen” the body of Christ have emerged as key themes in the latest synod report for the Catholic Church in the U.S.

This week on "Inside the Vatican," hosts Colleen and Gerry discuss Pope Francis’ proclamation of Jubilee Year 2025 and also review a global synod meeting of 200 parish priests held outside Rome earlier this month.

Around 200 parish priests met outside Rome last week for an official synod meeting after some members of the 2023 synod assembly said not enough parish priests had been included.

Pope Francis wrote a letter of encouragement to parish priests, who were largely missing from the first synod session.

Largely missing during October synod meetings, over 200 parish priests gather outside Rome for meetings

The reflections of Timothy Radcliffe, O.P., convinced me that Pope Francis' reframing of the scope and meaning of synods will have staying power, because it opens up a new model for the church.