This week saw the conclusion of the Synod’s reflection on Authority and leadership in the Church. The main themes which emerged this week included: that those who exercise authority must do so bare foot; leadership should be at the service of the poor; revision of financial structures for greater economic transparency; synodality does not eliminate authority but contextualises it; a call to strengthen existing synodal structures such as pastoral, diocesan and episcopal Councils, that church structures must develop a culture of protection to ensure the safeguarding of vulnerable adults and children; in a world of polarisation and xenophobia communion is the best message we can give; Communion with Peter; co- responsibility and active engagement of all the charism of a diocese and parish; commitment to eradicate clericalism both in clerical and lay circles and the engagement of specific skills and charisms of all the laity. The participants issued a letter to the People of God outlining their experience of the last three week to read click on the link: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-10/letter-to-the-people-of-god.html