Sr. Nathalie Becquart is the Undersecretary to the Secretariat of for the Synod on Synodality at the Vatican. She is the first woman in history to hold such a position, and the first woman to be given voting power at a Synod of Bishops. Sr. Nathalie was also recently named as one of the BBC’s top 100 inspirational women of 2022.

Sr. Nathalie will be in Australia prior to the Oceania Continental Assembly preparing for the 2023-24 Synod on Synodality. Sr. Nathalie has asked to visit the Archdiocese of Adelaide ahead of the Continental Assembly in part to learn about our experiences of becoming a more synodal church and to encourage us in our own efforts.

This is a unique and important opportunity for each of us to connect more closely with Pope Francis’ vision for a Church that is Together on the Way. At the 2022 Diocesan Assembly in October, there was a particular emphasis on synodality and mission. At the end of the Assembly, participants were encouraged to develop strategies with their parishes, schools, and communities. This gathering with Sr. Nathalie will assist with this work. Those who attended the Diocesan Assembly as well as parish priests and all clergy, pastoral associates, members of Parish Pastoral Councils, school leadership and leaders of communities are especially encouraged to attend this gathering.