Synodality as a Way of Being a Church Today: Implications, Challenges and Prospects

Abstract

Since its introduction, the Synod of Bishops has been a platform where a group of bishops gathers to deliberate on issues of concern to the Church and make recommendations for possible implementation by the Pope. In so doing, as Paul VI had desired, the Synod fathers have been of great help to the Pope in advising him on crucial matters of the Church. Even though not all the recommendations have been considered by the Pope, the mere exposure of the issues during the deliberations has opened up more debate among theologians, scholars, and the wider Church. This article examines the concept of synodality as a new way of being Church. Originating from a Synod, synodality is emerging as a model of a Church in which all members, both lay and clerics, are interested in and participate in the affairs that affect them as members of the Church and all take time to listen to one another. The article argues that with all its challenges, such a model is faithful to the idea of the Church as a community of baptized members and encourages all to feel being part of the Church