The Three Phases of a Synod  #10

Every Synod primary has three phases.  The first is a preparatory phase.  Normally a preparatory document gathers information from Bishops, congregations of the consecrated, and from the Roman Curia.  The second stage is the discussion phase wherein members, experts, auditors, and other people who have been invited attend meetings in Rome.  The third phase is the implementation phase wherein the Holy Father, in conversation with the Bishops, create a commission or utilize a current commission to implement the work of the Synod.  This is announced by way of an Apostolic Letter.