The worldwide consultations for the global synod reflect Pope Francis' efforts toward building a more inclusive Catholic Church

Pope Francis leads a prayer vigil at St. Peter's Square in Vatican City on Sept. 30, 2023. Antonio Masiello/Getty Images

The 16th Synod of Bishops, the first part of which will take place in Rome on Oct. 4-29, 2023, and the second in 2024, will be the culmination of a two-year, worldwide conversation in the Catholic Church.

The term “synod” usually refers to a local or regional meeting of church leaders. The Synod of Bishops was established by Pope Paul VI in 1965 as a permanent body in the Catholic Church, although its members do not meet on a regular schedule. It specifically refers to a meeting of selected bishops from around the world to advise the pope on matters of governance.