The Catholic Church Embracing Synodality as a Way of Life
When it comes to navigating the complexities of the modern world, Sr. Alessandra Smerilli believes that the Catholic Church must adopt Synodality as a way of life. As the Secretary of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, she recently shared this message at an event in the vibrant city of New Delhi, India.
During her speech at the Archbishop’s House in New Delhi, Sr. Alessandra Smerilli emphasized the importance of embracing a synodal approach in order to fulfill the Church’s mission in today’s ever-changing landscape. The General Secretariat of the Conference of Catholic Bishops in India (CCBI) reported that Dr. Smerilli highlighted Pope Francis’ vision of a synodal Church focused on communion, participation, and mission.
“It is essential for the Church to adopt synodality not just as a method, but as a way of life that promotes inclusivity and rejuvenates its mission,” she stated.
The event, titled “A New Way of Being the Church: Synodality,” took place on November 30 and brought together bishops from the northern region of India, theologians, and lay representatives. The discussion centered around how synodality can guide the Church’s work in the future.
Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto of Delhi, Secretary General of the CCBI, opened the gathering by calling for unity and shared responsibility within the Church. “Synodality represents a renewed journey of faith that emphasizes unity within diversity and collective discernment,” he remarked.
Fr. Christopher Vimalraj, Associate Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI, presented the CCBI Pastoral Plan—Mission 2033, which lays out strategies for evangelization and pastoral work leading up to the Jubilee of Redemption in 2033.
Throughout the consultation, participants engaged in discussions on aligning the Church’s mission with the principles of synodality, focusing on shared responsibility and active engagement. They reflected on how this approach can strengthen the Church’s role in society.
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