The Synod on Synodality, called by Pope Francis, is the most important Church meeting since the Second Vatican Council. The Holy Father has sought to hear from individuals of all backgrounds and expressions of catholicity.
The synod started with diocesan and continental phases, with responses from Catholics worldwide distilled into general themes, which were brought to the Vatican for the synodal assembly that started Oct. 4 and closes Oct. 29.
Synod attendees have reviewed the diocesan and continental responses, and Pope Francis asked them to discuss ways the Church could be more inviting and accompany people through modern-day challenges. Pope Francis has announced another gathering next year to continue learning, praying and discerning.
The word “synod” comes from the Greek for “journeying together.” The Church has used synods to receive information on pressing topics to provide instruction on living the Gospel message.
What does this have to do with the Church in St. Louis?
Quite a lot! Many of us see the complexities of the world, the number of people who don’t know Christ Jesus, and those who have left the Church altogether. Some have been hurt by the Church; others misunderstand her teaching or find it exclusive. Some people find they don’t have a place in the Church. Synodality seeks to help everyone know that they are valued members of the Church.
The aim of the synod is the same as the archdiocese’s All Things New initiative. We’ve taken a hard look at our infrastructure challenges. Now, we all need to listen to the Holy Spirit as to how we are called to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). As the preparatory document for the synod expresses, “In order to ‘journey together,’ we need to let ourselves be educated by the Spirit to a truly synodal mentality, entering with courage and freedom of heart into a conversion process that is indispensable…” This is a unique opportunity for the universal Church.
The synod has not been without its difficulties. How best can we acknowledge the hurt caused by the Church? How do we listen to questions on Church teaching and appreciate those who seek change, while remaining faithful to the truth from Christ that He has entrusted to the Church? As we hear from Vatican II, only God “meets the deepest longings of the human heart, which is never fully satisfied by what this world has to offer” (Gaudium et spes, 41). May the synod address these difficulties with courage, wisdom and love.
Pray for those representing us, the Church, at the synod. Guided by the Spirit, may its fruits help to renew and strengthen us as disciples of Jesus.
Father Brian Fallon is the chaplain to the Catholic Student Center at Washington University and the director of vocations for the Archdiocese of St. Louis.