Nearly 390 people attended the April 23 and 24 Pre-Synod Gathering sessions at St. Isidore Parish, Yuba City.

Facilitator Br. Loughlan Sofield engages the delegates as he speaks about the ideal qualities and attitudes of delegates: (1) to listen with understanding and empathy, (2) to be able to dialogue, and (3) to enter with mutual respect for all who participate in the Synod.

Delegates enjoy their lunch break on the beautiful grounds of St. Isidore parish. Their new parish hall was completed 9 months ago. Pastor Fr. Soria, staff and students of St. Isidore school extended generous hospitality to the hundreds of visitors over the two days.

Delegates were encouraged to get to know each other, acheive an "experience of church," and to learn and model collaboration.

Translation headsets were available and allowed for concurrent Spanish-language translation.

Delegates enjoy their lunch break.

Delegates are served a delicious lunch.

It was evident that the Synod will be a celebration of the diversity within the Diocese of Sacramento. People of many cultures and backgrounds gave testimony to the varying interests and needs.