Pope Francis Calls for Inner Transformation to Achieve Synodality in Catholic Church

Pope Francis addressed the Synod of Bishops 2024 Annual Plenary Meeting, emphasizing the need for deep inner transformation to achieve synodality in the Catholic Church.

The Pope stressed the importance of this transformation for the Church to truly become a 'synodal Church,' where all the baptized are called to participate actively in its life and mission.

In his address, Pope Francis urged the bishops to engage in this process of inner transformation, which he described as essential for the Church to move forward in a synodal way and to respond to the challenges of the modern world. "The Pope's upcoming 12-day trip across Asia-Pacific and Oceania in September was also announced," indicating his commitment to engaging with the global Catholic community.

Theologian Anna Rowlands, a key synod adviser, stated that Pope Francis is more interested in deepening the practice of synodality within the Church rather than wading into debates over hot-button issues. Sr. Julie Peters spoke about the importance of creating a psychologically safe space where diverse perspectives can be heard and utilized, among bishops, clergy, religious, and the People of God.

The bishops listened to Bishop Clyde Harvey's report on the situation in the Grenadian Church and expressed solidarity and support. They also discussed four key pastoral issues in the regional Church: Evangelisation and Discipleship Formation, Catholic Education, Domestic Church, and vocation. The bishops pledged continued prayerful and material support to the Haitian Church and agreed to shift the synod process to every level of the regional Church, launching a regional Synod in the Jubilee year 2025.

Why this matters: Pope Francis' call for inner transformation and synodality in the Catholic Church has far-reaching implications for the global Catholic community. The success of this process could lead to a more inclusive and participatory Church, better equipped to address the challenges of the modern world.

Archbishop Mark Coleridge of Brisbane, who has had a diverse career in the Church, highlighted the importance of bishops being open to change and taking advice, rather than just giving it. Despite not always anticipating how events would turn out, Archbishop Coleridge has found that 'Jesus often surprises, but he never disappoints'. The Pope's address and the discussions at the Synod of Bishops 2024 Annual Plenary Meeting underscore the Church's commitment to fostering a more synodal and inclusive approach to its life and mission.

Key Takeaways

• Pope Francis has called for deep inner transformation to achieve synodality in the Church.
• Synodality aims to make the Church more inclusive and participatory, addressing modern challenges.
• Bishops are urged to engage in this process, creating psychologically safe spaces for diverse perspectives.
• Synod to shift to all levels of the regional Church, launching a regional Synod in 2025.
• Archbishop Coleridge emphasizes bishops' openness to change and taking advice, not just giving it.