This fall, Rosemont College senior Elise Stankus traveled to Rome to participate in the Global Synod, a historic event within the Catholic Church focused on listening, dialogue, and prayer to guide the Church’s future. Elise’s participation reflects Rosemont’s commitment to mission-centered education and social justice, as well as its Catholic identity rooted in inclusivity and community engagement.
The current synod, also known as the Synod on Synodality, began in October 2021 and will conclude in 2024. This multiyear process invites Catholics worldwide to engage in prayerful reflection and dialogue to better understand how the Church can grow closer to its mission of proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Topics of discussion include inclusion, justice, and expanding roles for marginalized groups within the Church.
Elise, an English major with minors in Theology and Religious Studies, Studio Art and Design, and Creative Writing, attended the Synod as a member of Discerning Deacons, an organization focused on exploring the female diaconate, and CENTERS, a group amplifying college students’ voices to shape the Church’s future. Elise credits her involvement with SCHEAP (Synodality in Catholic Higher Education in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia)—a coalition of Catholic colleges, including Rosemont—with connecting her to these groups. The Philadelphia Inquirer featured Elise’s involvement in an article this fall.
As a passionate writer, Elise shared her experiences traveling to Rome for the Second Assembly of the Synod on Synodality on her blog, Witnessing Synod.
“Three main themes of my time in Rome were speaking with voting delegates, advocating for the female diaconate, and discussing intersectional justice, particularly the overlap of women’s rights and environmental justice,” said Elise. “My favorite part was being in community with people who share my vision for a synodal, structurally accountable, and radically compassionate Church.”
Reflecting on her experience, Elise emphasized the importance of respectful dialogue, even when opinions differ. “The question of the female diaconate is controversial, and I’ve had many conversations with people I disagree with. Rome opened my eyes to the importance of approaching these discussions with mutual respect and active listening,” she said.
Elise also highlighted the Synod’s focus on welcoming marginalized voices, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, young leaders, and people experiencing poverty.
“For many, this is the first time they are being given the space within a faith-based environment to share their experiences freely. The Synod de-centers focus from the hierarchical Church to the People of God, allowing the Holy Spirit to move at the grassroots level.”
As Elise continues her studies, including pursuing her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing through Rosemont’s MFA program, her experience at the Synod serves as an inspiring example of how Rosemont students are making an impact far beyond campus.
