The Ecclesial Conference of the Amazon: A Synodal Journey
Cardinal Pedro Barreto, president of the Ecclesial Conference of the Amazon, recently met with Pope Francis to share the fruits of the synodal journey in the region. During the meeting, Cardinal Barreto expressed the Amazon’s recognition of Pope Francis as their ‘grandfather’, a wise guide who encourages life and serves selflessly.
In an interview with Vatican Radio, Cardinal Barreto highlighted the progress made since the Amazon Synod in 2019, emphasizing the importance of the synodal process in shaping the Ecclesial Conference of the Amazon. He also raised concerns about environmental issues in the region, such as the murder of environmental activists and the illegal exploitation of natural resources.
Pope Francis appreciated the Church’s work in the Amazon and encouraged continued collaboration, acknowledging the synodal experience as a model for the Universal Church. As the Church navigates a renewal in the Amazon, Cardinal Barreto sees an opportunity for all baptized individuals to participate in the mission of the Church.
Looking ahead to the Jubilee of 2025, Cardinal Barreto sees hope and enthusiasm growing within the Church. He envisions a future where the Church in the Amazon continues to walk together in unity, embracing new paths and opportunities for evangelization and environmental stewardship.
As the Church prepares to celebrate the Jubilee of Hope, Cardinal Barreto emphasizes the importance of living out this hope through joint action and collaboration. He believes that by working together as a community, the Church can witness the presence of God and spread the joy of the Gospel to all.
Interview with Pedro Cardinal Barreto, President of the Ecclesial Conference of the Amazon
What was your experience of the audience with Pope Francis?
Cardinal Barreto describes the meeting with Pope Francis as a significant gathering of the CEAMA presidency and representatives of the Pan-Amazonian Ecclesial Network. He highlights the unity and collaboration present in the Church’s mission in the Amazon region.
What were the most important points that you shared with the Pope about this synodal process?
Cardinal Barreto shared the progress made since the Amazon Synod in 2019, emphasizing the formation of the Ecclesial Conference of the Amazon as a milestone in the synodal journey. He also raised concerns about environmental issues and the need for collective action to address them.
Regarding the concerns about deforestation and illegal mining, what actions have you taken?
The Church in the Amazon, through the Pan-Amazonian Ecclesial Network, is actively engaged in addressing environmental challenges. Cardinal Barreto stresses the importance of caring for life and the environment as part of the Church’s mission. The Church is working to implement the proposals from the Synod on the Amazon to promote sustainable practices and protect the Amazon biome.
What was Pope Francis’ message to encourage you?
Pope Francis commended the Church for its work in the Amazon and encouraged continued collaboration. He acknowledged the synodal experience as a model for the Universal Church and emphasized the importance of unity and participation in the Church’s mission.
How do you see the future for CEAMA, REPAM, and other institutions?
Cardinal Barreto envisions a future of unity and collaboration within the Church in the Amazon. He sees the synodal process as a catalyst for renewal and hopes that the Church will continue to walk together, embracing new paths and opportunities for evangelization.
How are you preparing to live the Jubilee of Hope?
Cardinal Barreto sees the Jubilee of Hope as an opportunity to put hope into action through joint efforts and collaboration. He believes that the Church’s journey towards the Jubilee will be marked by unity, resilience, and a shared commitment to spreading the Gospel and caring for the environment.
