The Unveiling of the Synod Schedule: A Journey Towards Synodality
The anticipation is building as the General Secretariat of the Synod has officially announced the schedule for the second session of the XVI General Assembly of the Synod on Synodality. The announcement came during a press conference held at the esteemed Holy See Press Office.
Leading the presentation of the upcoming Synod schedule, Cardinal Mario Grech, the Secretary General of the General Secretariat of the Synod, highlighted the importance of acknowledging sins that have caused immense pain. In a powerful display of repentance and confession, a penitential vigil at St. Peter’s Basilica will feature three individuals sharing their testimonies of suffering, symbolizing a collective act of seeking God’s mercy. The Holy Father will then lead the assembly in seeking forgiveness on behalf of all Christian brothers and sisters. Emphasizing the need for credible witness alongside the proclamation of the Gospel, Cardinal Grech stated, “The proclamation of the Gospel must be accompanied by credible witness.”
The Synodal Methodology: Embracing Listening and Discernment
Father Giacomo Costa, the Special Secretary of the General Secretariat of the Synod, shed light on the methodology of the Synod, emphasizing the significance of deep listening as the foundation of the assembly. He revealed that the Holy Father has reviewed the synthesis report, identifying areas that require further pastoral and theological exploration. The methodology of this assembly will focus on unity and diversity within local Churches, the vital contribution of laypeople in mission work, and the roles of bishops and priests in addressing their communities’ needs. It will also encompass the diverse cultural expressions of faith.
Faithful Synodal Conversion: The Ultimate Goal
Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, the Synod’s General Rapporteur, highlighted that the Synod is not about advancing personal interests or opinions but about truly listening to the People and embracing synodal conversion. He emphasized the need to set aside personal convictions in order to listen authentically. Cardinal Grech added that the fruits of the Synod journey have already begun to manifest, notably in the promotion of greater fraternity among participants from various Churches and the growing interest in the synodal process.
The journey towards Synodality is shaping up to be a transformative and enriching experience, guided by deep listening, repentance, and the collective pursuit of God’s mercy and forgiveness. As we prepare for the second session of the XVI General Assembly of the Synod, let us anticipate a profound exploration of our faith and a renewed commitment to genuine encounter and dialogue.
