NURTURING SYNODAL RELATIONSHIPS
The third part (nos.79-108) of the final document of the Synod on synodality outlines transformative practices for fostering a missionary and synodal Church. Centred on the Gospel call to “cast the net” (John 21:5-6), this part emphasises ecclesial discernment, participatory decision-making, transparency, accountability, and the revitalisation of institutional structures. These practices aim to align the Church’s mission with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, ensuring communion, coresponsibility, and engagement with contemporary realities.
In its discussion on the ecclesial discernment for mission (nos.81-86), the document insists that discernment as a Church is a spiritual practice rooted in prayer, humility, and communal listening to the Holy Spirit. Discernment transcends mere organisational technique, requiring interior freedom and openness to God’s will. This sort of ecclesial discernment includes: a. Clarifying the discernment’s objective and ensuring access to relevant information; b. Allowing time for prayer, scriptural reflection, and detachment from personal interests; c. Attentive listening to diverse voices, particularly marginalised groups; d. Seeking consensus through dialogue, avoiding superficial compromises; and e. Formulating decisions that participants can recognise as reflective of communal discernment. The document also insists that the process demands theological, biblical, and contextual understanding, integrating insights from Tradition, Magisterium, and human sciences. Formation in discernment is necessary for both laity and leaders and is critical to cultivating a culture of co-responsibility.
Further, a synodal Church requires broad participation in decision-making, balancing hierarchical authority with communal input (nos.87-94). The document stresses the “nothing without” principle: decisions should involve bishops, clergy, and the faithful, as exemplified by early Church practices. Integral to this vision are the following key principles: a. Differentiated Co-Responsibility that calls for respecting the roles of all members while ensuring decisions align with the Church’s mission; b. Consultation and Deliberation, through which, authorities must consult widely, with processes informed by discernment. Canon Law revisions are proposed to clarify the relationship between consultation and deliberation, eliminating ambiguities in “merely consultative” roles; c. Orderly Implementation that calls for defined roles for authorities (setting objectives,ensuring transparency), consultors (offering informed input), and the community (respecting decisions while retaining evaluative rights). The text underscores the urgency of concrete structural reforms to enhance credibility and avoid disillusionment among the faithful. The section on Transparency, Accountability, and Evaluation (nos.95-102) argues that transparency is rooted in gospel values of integrity and purity of heart, rejecting clericalism and secrecy. The synodal practice of transparency involves the following dimensions: a. Accountability Mechanisms including financial councils, annual externally audited reports, and evaluations of ministries; b. Mission Reporting: Public disclosure of pastoral activities, safeguarding efforts, and progress in lay inclusion; and c. Cultural Shift: Moving beyond bureaucracy, these practices serve as educational tools to rebuild trust, particularly in contexts of abuse or mismanagement. Leaders are urged to model accountability, ensuring decisions align with the common good and are explained to the community.
The final section entitled ‘Synodality and Participatory Bodies’ (nos.103-108) discusses existing canonical structures like diocesan synods, pastoral councils, and finance committees and argues that they must function dynamically, not just formally. The document makes the following recommendations: a. Diverse Membership: Prioritizing women, youth, marginalised groups, and laypeople engaged in secular contexts; b. Synodal Methods: Adapting “Conversation in the Spirit” for meetings, allowing agenda proposals from members; c. Regular Assemblies: Hosting ecclesial gatherings at all levels, open to ecumenical and interreligious dialogue; and d. Strengthening Diocesan Synods: Using these bodies for accountability, evaluation, and mission alignment, ensuring they meet frequently. Our vocation is to envision a Church where synodality permeates every level, driven by discernment, inclusive participation, and transparency. In this perspective, we need to embrace the call for legal, structural, and cultural reforms and focus on formation, accountability, and the active involvement of all baptised members. By integrating spiritual practices with institutional renewal, the Church seeks to authentically witness the Gospel in a rapidly changing world, ensuring its mission remains rooted in the Holy Spirit’s guidance. May the Blessed Mother inspire us to respond to this synodal call for integral and mutual transformation.
George Antonysamy,
Archbishop of Madras-Mylapore