Rome - The Diocese of Rome has revealed that it is anticipating a significant turnout for an upcoming ecumenical prayer vigil at the Vatican, scheduled ahead of the historic synod set to take place in Rome in October.

According to a press release from the Roman vicariate, they are expecting "approximately 3,000 people" to attend the event named "Together — Gathering of the People of God," which is scheduled to occur on Friday and Saturday in the city.

This event, described as "an ecumenical prayer vigil," will have the presence of Pope Francis and representatives from various Churches, aiming to bring people together in praise, silence, and reflection on the Word.

The prayer service is timed just before the commencement of the 16th General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, scheduled for the entire month of October in Rome. The diocese sees this vigil as an opportunity to entrust the synod's work to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

The Vatican had previously stated that this event would highlight the importance of prayer in the synodal process and underscore the connection between the synodal path and the ecumenical journey.

Anticipating attendees from various countries, including France, Hungary, Vietnam, and the United States, with a substantial delegation expected from Poland, the event is organized under the Vatican's auspices, with additional welcoming events arranged by the Diocese of Rome.

On Friday, there are plans for prayer vigils in local communities, along with moments of fellowship and fraternity. On Saturday, a pilgrimage is scheduled from the Basilica of St. John Lateran to the tomb of the apostle Peter.

Furthermore, organizers have prepared several workshops for participants, covering topics such as building relationships with believers of Islam, gaining insights into the real-life experiences of refugees, and a session on feeding the hungry, which includes a service opportunity at a Caritas Roma canteen.

The broader synod, known as the "synod on synodality" due to its focus on collaboration and participation among the Catholic faithful in advancing the Church's mission, spans multiple years and was initiated by Pope Francis in 2021, with an expected conclusion in 2024.

Next month's gathering of bishops marks the first of two major assemblies, with the second slated for October of the following year. During the upcoming assembly, bishops are expected to address a range of questions raised by synodal guidance documents, including how the Church can more fully serve as a sign and instrument of union with God and the unity of all humanity, as well as how it can better distribute gifts and responsibilities in service of the Gospel.

In January, when announcing this month's ecumenical vigil, Pope Francis extended an invitation to "brothers and sisters of all Christian denominations" to participate, emphasizing the interconnection between the path to Christian unity and the synodal transformation of the Church.