Welcome to the Synod General Assembly Day 5 Briefing!
Day 5 of the Synod General Assembly was marked by a special moment of prayer and fasting for peace, focusing on the first anniversary of Hamas’ attack on Israel. Participants highlighted the role of women in the Church and emphasized the importance of building bridges.
By Tiziana Campisi and Giampaolo Mattei
The morning sessions were preceded by a heartfelt prayer in solidarity with those affected by the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Paolo Ruffini, the Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, announced that Pope Francis had sent a letter to Catholics in the Middle East on this solemn day.
Cardinal Grech reminded the Synod participants that it was a day of prayer and fasting, as requested by the Pope. Cardinal Konrad Krajewski also announced a fundraising effort to support the only Catholic parish in Gaza and its priest, Fr. Gabriel Romanelli.
Moreover, 9 of the 21 new cardinals announced by the Pope will take part in this initiative, showing their commitment to supporting those in need.
The Synodal Assembly
The fourth General Congregation is scheduled for Tuesday, where members will elect the drafting committee for the Final Document. Reports from language tables will also be presented for discussion.
Synod members will vote on the agenda for discussions, followed by open dialogue sessions. The first two forums on pastoral theology are set for Wednesday, focusing on “The People of God, Subject of the Mission” and “The Role and Authority of the Bishop in a Synodal Church.”
The Synodal journey in Asia
Cardinal Oswald Gracias emphasized the importance of building bridges and fostering dialogue with diverse cultures and religions. He highlighted the need for a synodal approach in renewing pastoral practices.
Cardinal Gracias shared insights from the synodal journey in Asia, where bishops discussed respect for religions and the baptismal consecration of individuals. He stressed the importance of collaboration and fraternity in building the Kingdom of God.
Fostering unity and peace
Archbishop Gintaras Grušas focused on the importance of prayer and fasting for world peace, emphasizing solidarity with those affected by conflicts. He highlighted the need to strengthen relationships between Churches and promote dialogue as a mission.
Enhancing listening and relationships
Sister Mary Teresa Barron observed an improvement in reciprocal listening within the Synod, leading to greater discernment of others’ beliefs. She highlighted the importance of building relationships to help those on the peripheries.
Cardinal Gracias and Archbishop Grušas emphasized the need to value and recognize the roles of men and women in the Church. They also discussed the significance of the bishop’s role and the appointment process.
The Synodal journey continues to prioritize listening, dialogue, and fraternity, bringing the Church closer to those in need and fostering unity and peace. Stay tuned for more updates from the Synod General Assembly!
