Welcome to the latest update from the Vatican Press Office! On October 17, at a press briefing held in the Vatican Press Office, there was high praise for the tireless work of Churches dedicated to pastoral care for those on the move. The spotlight was also on youth and individuals with disabilities, with a strong call for increased collaboration between the Roman Curia and local communities.
Written by Antonella Palermo and Roberto Paglialonga
One of the highlights from the morning session of the Synod was the proposal of a “Mediterranean ecclesial assembly” to give voice to migrants. The assembly expressed gratitude for the crucial role played by Churches in welcoming migrants and lauded the networks that support this mission.
The discussions also delved into the importance of focusing on young people and individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the need for closer ties between the Roman Curia and local communities. Tomorrow, Cardinals Hollerich and Grech, Sister Salazar, and Bishop Flores are scheduled to engage with university students to discuss key topics from the assembly.
Shining a Spotlight on Disability and Interfaith Dialogue
The morning session saw 346 attendees in the Hall, with lively discussions on topics 2 and 3 of the Instrumentum Laboris. Calls were made to rejuvenate the role of parishes, involve young people more directly, and show genuine care towards people with disabilities, including the establishment of a dedicated council for them. Other issues raised included the integration of “virtual networks” like Talitha Kum into Episcopal Conferences, as well as a proposal for a common platform for students of diverse religions attending Catholic schools. Tomorrow, Cardinals Jean-Claude Hollerich and Mario Grech, Sister Leticia Salazar, and Bishop Daniel Flores will engage with university students to delve deeper into the Synod’s crucial themes.
Strengthening Bonds between Rome and Local Churches
Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, underscored the vital role of religious orders, particularly in areas of great suffering, distress, or education. He stressed the importance of fortifying the relationship between synodality and primacy, a topic that garnered much discussion in the open forums. Ruffini highlighted the ongoing ambiguity surrounding the theological status of Episcopal Conferences, even years after Vatican II. Suggestions were made to involve local Churches more in document preparation and for Vatican dicasteries to engage more frequently with smaller communities and dioceses.
Fostering Fraternal Relationships
Sister Samuela Maria Rigon, Superior General of the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother, shared insights on the synodal experience, emphasizing the importance of building fraternal ties. She pointed out that a quarter of the Synod participants are laypeople, young individuals, and religious, all of whom have a platform to voice their thoughts. Despite differing views on certain matters leading to mild tensions, she clarified that these are not divisions but rather multiple perspectives, such as the male/female dynamic.
The Synod in the Asian Church
Cardinal Charles Bo, Archbishop of Yangon, Myanmar, and President of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), offered insights into the synodal progress in Asia. He highlighted the increased involvement of young people in digital evangelization, innovative pastoral initiatives, and the challenges posed by clericalism. Despite some resistance from bishops, the FABC expressed satisfaction with the strides made, especially the Church’s dedication to hearing all voices.
The Imperative for Structural Change
Cardinal Gérald Cyprien Lacroix of Québec, Canada, stressed the importance of the Church’s ability to listen, especially to those with differing perspectives, and advocated for resolving conflicts without resorting to violence. He called for structural reforms, particularly in mission practices, media engagement, and spiritual growth.
Adapting to the Modern World
The discourse also touched on the need for decentralization between Rome and Episcopal Conferences, as well as the nexus between listening and implementing reforms. Prefect Ruffini highlighted the enduring contemplation within the Church regarding granting more autonomy to local Churches, especially post-Vatican II.
Exploring a “Ministry of Listening”
A proposal for a “ministry of listening” surfaced, sparking ongoing discussions. Cardinal Bo pointed out the uniqueness of this Synod as a true process and hoped that each bishop would consider hosting a diocesan synod to continue the transformative work initiated here.
