Welcome to Rome, where students from all corners of the United States have gathered to participate in a unique dialogue with the leadership of the Secretariat of the Synod.
Written By Linda Bordoni
Around 140 university students, predominantly from North America, assembled in the Paul VI Hall for an evening of engaging discussions with key figures of the Synod Secretariat.
The event, titled “University Students in Dialogue with Synod Leaders,” featured a thought-provoking exchange of questions and answers between the students and Cardinal Mario Grech, Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, Sr. Leticia Salazar, and Bishop Daniel Flores.
The setup of the roundtable discussion, mirroring the ongoing 2nd Session of the Synod on Synodality, symbolizes Pope Francis’ vision of a Church walking hand in hand on a journey of listening and participation.
Embracing the Challenge of Listening
The first question, posed by Asia Chan from Trinidad and Tobago, highlighted the struggle of expressing faith in a diverse culture and inquired about enhancing future consultations for broader inclusivity.
In response, Cardinal Grech emphasized the unprecedented scope of the Church’s current synodal process, stressing the importance of listening and connecting with a wide range of voices.
He acknowledged the significant increase in participation compared to previous synods, underlining the vital role of listening not just to opinions, but also to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in fostering a more synodal Church.
Engaging Youth on the Margins
Alexandra, hailing from Venezuela and raised in the Middle East, questioned the relevance of synodality for disengaged youth and how the Church could provide a healing space for those feeling marginalized.
Cardinal Hollerich highlighted the importance of listening and respect in a polarized world, emphasizing the Church’s role as a platform for dialogue and reconciliation amidst differing perspectives.
He pointed out that synodality offers a model for global fraternity, inspiring respectful conversations on vital issues like peace, justice, and ecology.
Preserving Tradition Amid Synodal Evolution
Sondra, a student from San Francisco, expressed concerns regarding upholding tradition amidst the focus on experiential aspects of the synodal process.
Bishop Flores reassured her that synodality does not compromise the essence of the Gospel, emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse viewpoints while staying faithful to the Church’s mission.
He emphasized that synodality deepens comprehension without diluting core teachings of the Church, fostering a more inclusive and participatory environment.
From Dialogue to Action
Joseph from New Orleans, immersed in youth ministry, inquired about translating discussions from the synod into tangible actions.
Sr. Leticia Salazar underscored the transformative nature of the synodal process, stressing the importance of carrying the experience back to communities and embodying synodality in daily life.
She envisioned a future where synodality becomes a lived reality, shaping the Church’s collective journey towards inclusive and participatory leadership.
Synodality in Formation Programs
Fabio, hailing from El Salvador and a theology scholar, raised queries about integrating synodal principles into theological and ministerial training programs.
Bishop Flores encouraged theologians and seminarians to engage with real-life experiences, emphasizing the need to step out of academic settings and embrace the realities of marginalized communities.
Cardinal Grech stressed the importance of infusing synodal values at all levels of Church formation, inviting students and scholars to actively contribute to this ongoing dialogue.
Interfaith Dialogue and Global Collaboration
Mika from Cincinnati queried about the Church’s role in promoting interfaith dialogue and learning from other faith traditions.
Cardinal Hollerich emphasized the importance of partnerships with other religions to address global challenges, viewing synodality as a unifying force for greater fraternity and shared action.
He called for collective efforts to promote peace, harmony, and ecological justice, outlining the Church’s mission as a beacon of love and compassion.
A Tapestry of Prayers and Inquiries
In a touching conclusion, students presented a symbolic mosaic representing prayers and questions from their time in Rome, underscoring the collective desire for a more inclusive, listening, and truly synodal Church.
