Welcome to the latest update on the progress of the Synod Study Groups established by Pope Francis. Representatives of these groups recently gathered to share insights and developments in their work, providing a glimpse into the ongoing synodal process.
By Vatican News
The meeting, held on Tuesday morning, saw each coordinator presenting an update on their group’s activities. They discussed the methodologies employed, the individuals and organizations involved, expected timelines for report submissions, challenges faced, and any remaining questions.
Highlights from the Meeting
During the meeting, each coordinator offered insights into their group’s progress, shedding light on the processes, stakeholders, and anticipated outcomes. It was described as a valuable sharing session, especially beneficial for groups tackling overarching issues.
Following the presentations, Fr. Giacomo Costa, SJ, provided guidance to ensure coherence in drafting and submitting reports.
Assistance from the Canonical Commission
Participants were informed of the support available from the Canonical Commission, especially for legal or canonical matters. Cardinal Mario Grech emphasized the importance of external contributions, which can still be submitted via email until March 31, 2025.
Background on Study Groups
The establishment of the ten Study Groups stemmed from the First Session of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, where crucial themes concerning the Church’s synodal journey were identified. These groups were formed in response to Pope Francis’ call for collaboration and deeper reflection on key issues.
Pope Francis entrusted Cardinal Grech with overseeing the Study Groups’ work, emphasizing a truly synodal approach. The General Secretariat was tasked with defining the groups’ mandate in alignment with the Pope’s directives.
