Bishop Alfred Schlert was joined by dozens of diocesan priests, deacons, religious, and seminarians, along with hundreds of faithful Catholics, to launch the Synod of Bishops at a special Mass at the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Allentown.

After the Synod opening Mass, Ambassadors received suggestions and guidance on how best to reach out to as many people as possible to gather feedback.

An exposition of sacred relics – including a fragment of the Veil of Our Lady and some of the largest remaining pieces of the Wood of the True Cross – will be held at three Diocese of Allentown parishes in early November.

Pope Francis wants to hear from all Catholics around the world, and the Diocese of Allentown will begin the listening process at a special Mass Sunday, Oct. 17. Here is the text of a news release issued by the Diocese:

“Everybody says ‘I love Jesus’, but can you pick up your cross and follow him?” asked Kevin Wells, author of the book The Priests We Need to Save the Church, during a recent morning of reflection sponsored by the diocesan Commission for Men.