International training course on synodality begins in Italy

The Evangelii Gaudium Center at the Sophia University Institute in Loppiano, Italy, began an international training course titled "For a new humanism: a synodal way of life" on Monday, October 26, 2026. The course explores how synodality principles can be applied to daily Church life, human relationships, and community responsibilities.

The inaugural meeting took place online via Zoom. Dr. Declan O’Byrne, rector of the Sophia University Institute, addressed participants by referencing a speech delivered in Florence on November 10, 2015. O’Byrne spoke about a new Christian humanism centered on the person and humanity of Jesus Christ and identified humility, self-giving, and evangelical joy as essential attitudes for synodal life.

Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary general of the General Secretariat of the Synod, provided a video message to the participants.