Join us for an exclusive interview with Bishop Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia, as we delve deeper into the upcoming second session of the General Assembly of the Synod.
“Synodality is the key to shaping the future,” shares Bishop Paolo Martinelli in a recent interview discussing the newly released Instrumentum laboris (IL).
In this interview, the Vicar Apostolic of Southern Arabia commends the IL as a “clear and simple” document that provides a solid foundation for the discussions set to take place during the General Assembly in October.
Unveiling the Instrumentum Laboris with Bishop Paolo Martinelli, O.F.M. Cap.
Q. What is your initial reaction to the Instrumentum Laboris?
My first impression is that the document is incredibly straightforward and concise. It offers a clear roadmap for the discussions scheduled for October. Unlike last year, where the themes were varied, this new Instrumentum Laboris allocates specific themes to different commissions for a more extensive exploration. It is a well-crafted document that shines a spotlight on the essence of synodality.
Q. What aspects of this document stand out to you?
Finally, after much deliberation, we have a more defined understanding of Synodality. While the term Synod is not new to the Church, this document brings forth various critical themes for discussion in October. These themes include Unity as the harmonization of differences, the interplay between man and woman as siblings, the significance of charisms and ministry, Christian initiation, priestly identity within the people of God, Ecclesial discernment, decision-making within the Church, and more. I am thrilled to have this document as our guide for the forthcoming discussions in October.
Q. How do you envision the October Synod assembly in light of this document?
The Synodal Assembly holds great significance in the Church’s life. It serves as a pivotal Ecclesial event where Bishops, priests, religious sisters, and laity converge with the Holy Father to engage in key deliberations. This assembly is a melting pot of experiences, offering insights into the Church’s dynamics across different cultures and nations. The richness of the synod lies in this global exchange. Moreover, the themes outlined in the Instrumentum Laboris will serve as our compass during the discussions. The enthusiasm from the faithful in our vicariate regarding this synod is palpable.
Q. How do you perceive the Church’s future in light of this Synodal Assembly?
Synodality paves the way for the Church’s future. It is not about creating a new Church but rather deepening our understanding of its core identity. Synodality is deeply rooted in ‘Communion,’ a fundamental concept in the Church’s ecclesiology post the Second Vatican Council. This theme resonates strongly with the Church in the Gulf, a congregation comprising migrants of diverse nationalities, languages, cultures, and rituals. Within this dynamic, being a Church among Muslims means bearing witness to Christ. Unity amidst diversity serves as our strongest testimony. Synodality propels us towards a prophetic vision of this reality.
Q. What message do you have for the faithful in your Vicariate regarding this document and the Synodal Assembly?
First and foremost, I urge all our faithful to accompany the synod and its proceedings with prayer. Prayer is the cornerstone of this journey. Let us pray for openness to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, for He resides within the Church like the soul within the body. Additionally, I encourage everyone to read the Instrumentum Laboris to comprehend the Church’s trajectory in this synodal expedition. Stay updated on the Synod assembly through Vatican media publications. I will also share reflections, as done previously, to stay connected with my congregation during the assembly. Embrace the spirit of synodality by walking together. Let our Church in the Gulf, with its diversity, be a beacon of unity founded in our shared baptism. Reach out to those who feel marginalized, for in the Church, everyone is valued, everyone is essential. Lastly, remember to keep your Bishop in your prayers as he partakes in the Synodal Assembly in Rome.
Thank you, Bishop Martinelli, for your insights and blessings for a fruitful Synodal Assembly in October.
