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Pope Leo XIV has publicly called for “new and concrete forms for an ever more intense synodality.” While he preserves the institutional continuity of the Synod of Bishops, he seeks to enrich it with the fruits of recent synodal experiences and to extend it into local Churches.
In the Philippines, a predominantly Catholic country, the active involvement of Catholics appears limited to practices of popular piety, religious fiestas, and salu-salo. However, according to the Synod on Synodality, communion, participation, and mission encompass much more than these activities.
Synodality’s prophetic nature refers to two significant things: 1) the task to read the signs of the times; and 2) the prophetic office or function of every baptized, the proclamation of the Gospel or evangelization, which is her core mission.
The Final Document of the Synod on Synodality puts a strong emphasis on the process of “ecclesial discernment.” What does the 2021-2024 Synod of Bishops mean by it?
In 21st-century Christianity, the voice of the people as a Christian community is recognized. Pope Francis believes that involving the widest participation of the People of God in listening and journeying together is the right path toward a synodal Church.
Canonically, synods are synods of bishops. But historically, synods are not synods of the ordained, nor do they refer only to the official gatherings of bishops to exercise their collegiality, cum Petro et sub Petro. Francis exerts much effort to revive the original concept of synodality.
