A Listening Church

This October, representatives from all over the world will meet again in Rome to discuss the issues they have been studying for the final phase of the synod. While some may dismiss the event as inconsequential, Pope Francis sees the synod as reflecting his vision for dialogue and decision-making in the church. This sounds like a monumental task considering there are so many different cultures, languages, experiences, and needs of the worldwide church.

Pope Francis took a great risk in calling this world-wide synod in 2021. He realizes he cannot know what is happening in every corner of the world and decide how to respond to its needs and issues. He must remain true to the Gospel and the commandments yet realize this is a very different world from the world at the time of Christ. Adaptation seems to be very essential at this time in our history.

For example, in some countries there are not enough priests to care for the people. Often married men are appointed to respond to needs in the parishes. This is especially true in Asia and Latin America. Some bishops and others have asked that married men who are qualified and already perform church ministries be able to be ordained as permanent deacons or even priests.

Many other issues require discernment and collaboration. It is helpful that the representatives are seated at round tables and each person gets a chance to speak. Listening to one another is so essential in the synodal process. Of course, all the members must also listen to the Holy Spirit who is sending inspiration to guide the way.  As Father Timothy Radcliff stresses in his book, Listening Church, they must listen to each representative and be real and honest in responding.

Let us hope and pray that this phase of the synod will bring an abundance of graces to all the participants as they listen carefully to one another and that it will renew the whole Church as these men and women return to their own countries to implement the decisions.