On Ash Wednesday in 2021, Most Reverend Edward J. Burns, eighth Bishop of Dallas, wrote a Letter to the Faithful, acknowledging the profound impact the COVID-19 pandemic had on the community. He shared, "A historic pandemic needed a historic response," and announced his decision to convene a synod for the Diocese of Dallas. This would be the first synod in 90 years, since the one convened by Bishop Joseph P. Lynch.

The diocesan synodal process began on December 12, 2021, the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Today, four years later, after 30 listening sessions with thousands of participants, countless pages of feedback, and a Synod Assembly with more than 300 delegates, Bishop Burns presents the Post-Synodal Pastoral Letter for the Diocese of Dallas. This is the first of a small series of letters that will highlight the work and status of the Diocesan Synod in the Diocese of Dallas.

As we begin this time of Lenten prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, we invite you today to read and reflect on the 2025 Ash Wednesday Pastoral Letter by Bishop Burns.