Final Synod Document Urges a 'Synodal Conversion' with Focus on Community, Mission and Transparency

Vatican, October 29, 2024: In a historic step forward, the second session of the Sixteenth Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops adopted a Final Document on synodality. This document, comprising 155 approved paragraphs, promotes a transformative path of the Church as a community grounded in communion, participation, and mission, with a unique emphasis on transparency, accountability and local Church roles. Pope Francis, opting to release the document directly rather than incorporating it into an Apostolic Exhortation, aims to inspire immediate reflection and action across the global Catholic Church.

The document underscores that synodality defined as the Church’s “daily journey with a synodal methodology of consultation and discernment” extends beyond the current assembly, calling for a “tangible synodal conversion” in all Church contexts. It also calls bishops to embrace their role in fostering transparency and accountability, while encouraging a renewed focus on forming laity and clergy as active missionary disciples. Cardinal Victor Fernandez, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, emphasized the ongoing efforts to amplify women's roles within the Church.

Central to the document’s message is a vision of the Church as a community formed through "relationships" and “bonds” of exchange among diverse cultures and contexts. This interconnectedness, noted as essential to synodality, supports the idea that each local Church, through shared gifts and collaborative leadership, becomes a foundation of missionary outreach. Episcopal Conferences are called to foster stronger connections through regular consultation with the Vatican’s Dicasteries, particularly before releasing major normative documents.

The document, rooted in the Gospel accounts of the Resurrected Christ’s appearances, outlines five parts: the heart of synodality, the Church’s missionary journey, conversion of ecclesial processes, formation of missionary disciples, and the cultivation of ecclesial bonds. Reflecting on Christ’s wounds as symbols of ongoing global suffering, the document reiterates Pope Francis’ plea for peace amid conflicts and calls for renewed ecumenical efforts to realize a "full and visible unity of Christians."

In a bold pastoral vision, the document advocates for the Church as a relational home where diverse charisms and ministries are cultivated, pointing to mutual accountability and co-responsibility among clergy and laity as essential elements. Concluding with a prayer to the Virgin Mary, the Synod Fathers and Mothers entrusted the synodal process to her guidance, hoping to inspire a Church that embodies both unity and missionary zeal. This Final Document sets a comprehensive path for the global Church, blending spirituality with practical reforms aimed at fostering a spirit of communion, mission, and conversion in the journey ahead.

Courtesy: Vatican News