The CAL: Building Bridges of Reconciliation and Inclusion
Pope Francis recently met with the participants of the Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America (CAL) and urged them to focus on building bridges of reconciliation, inclusion, and fraternity. He emphasized the importance of turning the concept of “walking together” from a mere phrase into an authentic pastoral experience.
Embrace the Synodal Reform of the Church
The Holy Father challenged the members and advisors of the CAL to address three key questions that are not only relevant in today’s world but also integral to the synodal reform that the Church must undertake to reflect the true face of Jesus Christ more transparently.
We Are Called to a Profound Renewal
Pope Francis drew parallels to the Second Vatican Council, highlighting the speeches of Saint John XXIII and Saint Paul VI, as well as Cardinal Ratzinger’s views on the Church’s true reform. He emphasized the need for a flourishing renewal and a perennial reform within the Church.
A ‘Diakonia’ to Experience Pastoral Care
Referencing the Constitution Praedicate evangelium, the Holy Father underscored the importance of the CAL in facilitating pastoral care and fostering a sense of affection from the Successor of Peter for the Church in Latin America.
Promote a Synodal Style of Thinking, Feeling, and Doing
The CAL is not just a symbol of Roman Curia’s renewal but an active agent in promoting necessary transformations to enhance synodality in Latin America. Pope Francis stressed the importance of discretion, prudence, and effectiveness in instilling a synodal style of operation within all ecclesial organizations.
Synodality Ad Intra Bears Fruits of Fraternity Ad Extra
The Holy Father drew parallels between the CAL and Saint Juan Diego, highlighting the synodal and communal aspects of his life as sources of inspiration for the Church in Latin America. He emphasized that true synodality results in fraternal reconciliation and a new reality in Latin America.
CAL: An Expression of Authentic Pastoral Experience
Pope Francis urged the CAL to foster a culture of reconciliation, inclusion, and fraternity across Latin America and beyond. The commission should inspire and motivate rather than impose, allowing each reality to discern its path with guidance from the Spirit.
In the Jubilee, May the Sanctuaries Be Places of Welcome
As the ordinary Jubilee of 2025 approaches, Pope Francis encouraged the use of Marian shrines as holy places of welcome and hope. He reminded the faithful of the revolutionary message of hope sent through Juan Diego and the significance of these shrines in generating hope for pilgrims around the world.
