With reports from at least 112 of the 114 bishops’ conferences around the world, the Synod on Synodality has entered its next phase as 35 laypeople, priests and bishops meet to discern the outcome of the worldwide listening process.

Pope Francis in today's audience: "In our continuing catechesis on discernment, the process of making sound decisions about the God-given meaning and direction of our lives, we now consider the importance of prayer."

The cardinal who, until now, served as the Vatican’s chief archivist and librarian, had long been rumored to be named prefect of this newly created Vatican office.

In the second part of this exclusive interview, Cardinal Grech reveals in new depth the plans for the continental and Roman phases of the global synodal process.

Starting Sept. 21, a team of 35 people "summoned from all continents" went to Frascati, outside Rome, to synthesize the reports from phase one of the synod.

Unknown gunmen fired upon the papal almoner, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, as he and others attempted to deliver humanitarian aid in Ukraine on Saturday. No injuries were reported in the attack.