The Diocese of Tucson wants to listen to young people in person and is making plans to connect with them online.

The diocese's synod subcommittee on students in high school and college met on Nov. 4 to discuss ways to reach "these important groups," the diocese stated in a Facebook post. 

"We will begin listening sessions in the five diocesan high schools next week and plans are underway to bring together a group of college students and young professionals to explore how we can better use technology to connect with college students and young adults," the post states. The diocese plans to begin the social-media initiatives in December and January, according to the post..

The listening sessions, which continue through December, are built on five themes: companions on the journey, listening, celebration, dialogue in church and society, and discerning and deciding, the diocese stated on its website. 

Last month, Pope Francis declared a "synod on synodality," the Conversation reported, officially known as “Synod 2021-2023: For a Synodal Church.” Synod is from a Greek phrase meaning "coming together" the story said. Bishops worldwide will consult with monks, nuns, parishioners and others with the goal of increasing transparency, according to the report.

The listening sessions with youth are part of the preparation for 2023 Synod of Bishops, the Tucson diocese said.

"These listening sessions are an invaluable opportunity for everyone in  the diocese to both share their experiences and to listen to the  experiences of others," it said.

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