Shaping Synodality in Europe

From Vision to Roadmap

14–17 September 2026 
 

Bildungshaus Schloss Puchberg (Wels, Austria)
Under the patronage of the Council of European Bishops' Conferences (CCEE)

In the midst of the worldwide Implementation Phase of the Synod (2025-2028), Europe, too, sets a sign of the synodal journey. You are warmly invited to a gathering that will be more than a conference – it will stand as a milestone for the local Churches of Europe. This symposium marks an important step on the road toward the European Ecclesial Assembly in the spring of 2028, which will in turn precede the worldwide Ecclesial Assembly in October of the same year.

Organized under the patronage of the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences (CCEE), in cooperation with the Research Group of the Department for Synodality at the Catholic Private University Linz and the European Taskforce of the CCEE, the symposium opens a shared space of encounter, inviting us to give more concrete shape to the synodal journey in Europe. Your expertise, your stories, and your hope will become sources of mutual exchange – of sharing experiences, learning together, and deepening our common path.

Our common journey unfolds along a clear and life-giving path: from the spiritual source, through the rugged realities of our continent, toward the concrete form of a Church that courageously embraces her mission. We envision a missionary Church that goes beyond herself – a Church that sees where others look away and listens where others fall silent.

I. Liturgy: Embracing the World (14 September, starting at 16:00 H)

Everything begins with a fundamental attitude: In the liturgy, we celebrate that God speaks to humanity as friends, entering into our lives and drawing us into relationship with himself. Such friendship calls us not to withdraw, but to embrace the world God has created. When God turns toward the world, reality does not recede but comes near. In this light, we discover Baptism not merely as a rite of initiation, but as an empowerment to share in this divine embrace. We seek a liturgical practice that breathes this expansiveness and allows us to see the world through the loving eyes of God.

II. Transforming Europe: Listening to the Life of Our Continent (15 September)

Embracing the world we inhabit, we choose to face the European context with hope. We contemplate its realities – its rich cultural heritage alongside its wounds and challenges. We regard Europe as the cherished landscape where our shared life takes on meaning. A synodal Church does not turn away from conflict; it becomes a space of hope and attentive listening precisely where the divides run deepest.

III. Transforming the Church: Giving Shape to Mission (16 September)

How can such an attitude become a lasting way of life? We are learning to be a Church that consistently draws its missionary impulse from a baptismal ecclesiology. This is not about cosmetic adjustments to structures, but about embodying the form of ecclesial life envisioned by the Vatican II. What do ministries look like that truly serve? What paths of discernment take every baptized person seriously? We shape structures not as ends in themselves, but as instruments that open spaces for living the missionary vision of Baptism in today’s Europe.

The symposium will conclude on 17 September with breakfast.

Our Goal:
Three days – a shared journey unfolding from celebrating the nearness of God to embracing the nearness of the world, and from there to shaping a synodal Church alive in mission. Together, let us chart this roadmap for synodality in Europe – a path of faith, courage, and hope.

We look forward to welcoming you in Linz.

ORGANIZATIONAL INFORMATION

Languages:
The conference languages are English, German, Italian, and French. Simultaneous interpretation will be provided.

Costs:
The participation fee is approximately €350 per person (final amount to be confirmed on 26 February 2026). This fee includes full participation in the symposium, accommodation for three nights (14–17 September 2026), full board, translation services, and related costs.

Please note that the dynamic and process of the conference require full participation throughout the entire event. Hence shortened attendance cannot be considered. 

Additional Nights:
Any additional nights must be paid individually and directly to the Bildungshaus. However, we will gladly take care of the reservation for you upon request.

Important Note:
As places are limited, we strongly recommend reserving your spots in good time. We cannot guarantee availability after the deadlines have passed. Further detailed information/program is to be expected in early March 2026.

Registration & Deadlines:
Priority Registration for Bishops' Conferences: Open until 1 April 2026.
Each Bishops' Conference is invited to send up to 3 delegates.

Open Registration:
After 1 April 2026, registration will be opened to members of the diocesan, national teams, subject to availability. 

Registration forms: forms.gle/H53R4hWZDDbA2pbg6

Location:
Directions to the Bildungshaus Schloss Puchberg

For all questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at: synod@ku-linz.at