Issue

Abstract

The synodal life of the Church is rooted in the Scriptures and Tradition. God calls the whole human race to union with Him. Unity in Him is fulfilled in Jesus Christ and brought about through the ministry of the Church. In every period of her history, the Church rethinks her evangelising mission through various councils, synods, and assemblies. She affirms her nature as a pilgrim, always in movement with the vital reality of the society for whose salvation she is responsible. She hears the cry of pain and suffering of the people; therefore, she is profoundly synodal in the fulfilment of her salvific mission.

There are several forms of “synodality” developed in the early centuries and some forms of it are still experienced across the Church today. The Churches convoke synods to discuss doctrinal and pastoral issues relevant to their times. Vatican Council II brought the fruit of renewal in the promotion of ecclesial communion, episcopal collegiality, synodal awareness, and praxis, which we must welcome as gifts of the Holy Spirit for the journey of the People of God.