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Three hundred clergymen recently gathered in Rome for a conference titled ‘Parish Priests for the Synod’, where they discussed how to implement synodality at the local level. The event was attended by priests from all over the world, coming together to share their visions and hopes for synodality in their communities.
After meeting with Pope Francis to discuss their experiences and new roles as “missionaries of synodality”, some of the priests shared their insights with Vatican News.
Understanding Synodality
Fr. Stefan Ulz from the Austrian Diocese of Graz-Seckau explained that synodality means recognizing that the Holy Spirit speaks through everyone, not just through the Pope, bishops, and priests. As a parish priest, he emphasized the importance of listening to others and being open to the surprises that the Holy Spirit can bring through different people.
Diverse Perspectives on Synodality
The conference highlighted the diverse ways synodality is practiced around the world. For Fr. Jude Raj Fernando from the Archdiocese of Colombo, Sri Lanka, synodality means being close to the suffering of the people, especially in times of crisis like the recent economic challenges and the tragic Easter bombings.
Meanwhile, in parts of the world where religious disaffiliation is a concern, synodality is viewed as a way to reconnect with those who have drifted away from the church. Fr. Clint Ressler from the US Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston shared how some parishioners see synodality as a means of revitalizing their faith and reaching out to new generations.
Becoming Synodal Missionaries
Bishop Luis Marín de San Martín underscored the importance of grassroots reform, with Pope Francis relying on parish priests to champion synodality in their communities. The priests are eager to take on this role, with Fr. Fernando expressing his enthusiasm for spreading the message of synodality to his congregation and fellow clergy.
As the conference wraps up, these priests are ready to return to their dioceses as ambassadors of synodality, bringing new energy and perspectives to their local communities.
