Synod 2021–2024

Among the challenges identified during the process of the Latin American church’s First Ecclesial Assembly were social and economic inequalities exacerbated by the pandemic.

The reports sent to the Vatican from local and national listening sessions show “a deep, deep hunger for a new confidence in the church, a confidence in its ability to proclaim the Gospel to a world so deeply in need.”

The document released Oct. 27 is the result of a group reflection on the syntheses of synod discussions submitted by 112 of the world’s 114 bishops’ conferences, all 15 Eastern churches, 17 of the 23 dicasteries of the Roman Curia, the men’s and women’s international unions of superiors general, dozens of Catholic associations and more than 1,000 individuals.

“An essential element of the synodal journey is the development of a greater sense of co-responsibility of the lay faithful for the life and future of the church,” the pope said Oct. 20.

“Focusing on encountering Jesus, the role of listening is at the heart of this movement. How can we prepare and open ourselves to him? How can we reflect the love he shares with us with others?”

Before the end of October, the synod office will release its “Document for the Continental Phase” of the synod, echoing the themes that emerged from all the national syntheses of synod listening sessions and the contributions of religious orders, Catholic movements, Vatican dicasteries and nuncios from around the world.

Marking the 60th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council, Cardinal Mario Grech said that while “synodality” was not a term used by the council, it reflects the council’s vision of the church.

The document will be the subject of prayer and discussion at continental assemblies, which are scheduled to be held between January and March 2023.