Welcome everyone! The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as Cardinal Mario Grech, the Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, delivers his opening address at the First General Congregation of the second session of the Synod General Assembly.
1st General Congregation
2 October 2024
OPENING ADDRESS FROM CARD. MARIO GRECH
Secretary General of the Synod
Greetings to all, my sisters and brothers in Christ! We are gathered here for the second session of the Assembly, seeking the guidance of the Spirit in our deliberations. The Spirit’s presence is vital as we navigate through the challenges and crises facing our world today.
War rages on in various parts of the globe, threatening to escalate further. The longing for peace becomes more urgent as generations suffer the consequences of conflict. This Assembly stands as a beacon of hope, as individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to listen, learn, and discern the way forward.
Our focus on discernment underscores the essence of the Synod: it is a collective effort to listen, understand, and respond to the promptings of the Spirit. Through dialogue and prayer, we strive to achieve a deeper understanding of truth and justice, not just within the Church but also in society at large.
Structural reform is a recurring theme in discussions about the Church’s future. While reform is necessary, it must align with the Spirit’s guidance to be truly transformative. The Synod serves as a platform for shared discernment, where different voices come together to seek God’s will for His Church.
As we embark on this synodal journey, let us remember that true progress lies in our unity as the People of God. By actively listening to one another and engaging in genuine dialogue, we can move closer to the truth that the Spirit reveals to us. Let this process of discernment shape our collective path towards a more profound understanding of our faith and mission.
Let us approach this Synod with open hearts and minds, ready to embrace the Spirit’s guidance and wisdom. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive Church that reflects the love and mercy of Christ to the world. May our work here bring us closer to the realization of God’s Kingdom on earth!
