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What will it take for the church to truly become synodal?
In this timely and thought-provoking book, two experienced educators and leaders reflect on the promise – and the unfinished work – of a Church called to walk together in mission, dialogue and discernment. Drawing on decades of experience in leadership, social sciences and Catholic life, Anne Benjamin and Charles Burford explore why the vision of synodality has proven so difficult to realise, and what must change if it is to take root.
With honesty and hope, the authors confront the gap between aspiration and practice: the uneven reception of Vatican II, the persistence of hierarchical habits, and the urgent need for better leadership, formation and organisational culture within the Church. At the same time, they offer a compelling vision of what a more synodal Church might look like – one that is inclusive, listening, mission-focused and responsive to the realities of the modern world.
Written for leaders at every level – ordained and lay – this book moves beyond theory to consider how real communities can grow towards their best selves. It draws on insights from the human and social sciences alongside a deep commitment to the Gospel, arguing that authentic spiritual renewal must be accompanied by sound leadership practice.
Motivated by concern for future generations, and inspired by the global synodal journey, this is both a challenge and an invitation: to imagine, to lead, and to help shape a Church that more faithfully reflects the compassion and mission of Jesus.
Charles Burford and Anne Benjamin are academics and Catholic educators who, between them, have about a century of experience in teaching, researching and practising leadership. Both have extended experience at Australian Catholic University and in leadership in a number of ministries and dioceses across and beyond Australia.
”Synodality was not widely heard as a term before Pope Francis, yet its roots extend back to Vatican II, deep into Church tradition and ultimately into the Bible. While it may sound new, it is ancient; while it may appear a human strategy, it is the work of the Holy Spirit. It calls us to listen in new ways that enable us to speak and act with Gospel power. These pages offer a well-informed and practical guide to the synodal path God is opening – not only to bishops, but to all the baptised.”
— The Most Reverend Mark Coleridge,
Archbishop Emeritus
”Synodality requires people to take initiative. Each of the faithful must be willing to ‘rock the boat’ and create waves in ways that reflect their expertise, gifts, personality and context. That is certainly what Charles Burford and Anne Benjamin have done. I welcome this book for its accessible language and the engaging way the authors weave together reflection, personal experience and practical suggestions.”
— Dr Jos Moons SJ, Boston College,
author of Witnesses of synodality: good practices and experiences, The future of synodality: how we move forward from here and Synodality and the Roman Catholic Church: an academic bibliography 2013–2026
”If synodality is to amount to anything substantial, it will need people to lead it. And those talents won’t emerge like magic, miraculously. Though this book might broker some real ‘miracles’ of personal growth, to serve the Church of the future. Let’s hope!”
— Geraldine Doogue,
Australian journalist and broadcaster
”Anne Benjamin and Charles Burford draw on a lifetime of experience to share a fresh vision of synodal leadership. Underpinned by conversion, mission and openness to the Holy Spirit, their work combines theological grounding with insights from the secular world. A timely work as we take the next steps on our Synod journey. ”
—Avril Baigent,
Director of pastoral development, Diocese of Northampton, UK, and co-director, School for Synodality
