Does the Synod want to change doctrine?What is synodality?What is happening in the Church in Latin America?The Pope wishes that the conclusions of the Final Document of the Synod on Synodality be taken into account as the ordinary Magisterium of the Pope. The Final Document of the XVI General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, approved on October 26, 2024, is the fruit of a synodal process begun in October 2021. This journey has been an exercise of deep listening to the People of God and discernment of the pastors, with the aim of identifying concrete steps to strengthen communion, promote participation and renew the mission entrusted by Jesus Christ. The orientations of the Document are the result of a journey that began in the local Churches and extended to national, continental and global levels, culminating in two sessions of the Synod Assembly in 2023 and 2024.
The Document, which represents an expression of the ordinary magisterium of the Pope, contains directives to guide the Church towards a deeper synodal praxis consistent with today's challenges. While not strictly normative in character, it invites local Churches and groupings to apply its indications through processes of discernment and decision-making, adapting to different cultural and pastoral contexts. In many cases, this involves implementing norms already existing in current ecclesial law, both in its Latin and Eastern versions. In others, it opens the door to creative forms of ministry and missionary action, fostering experiences that should be evaluated.
Bishops to report to Rome
The implementation phase will be accompanied by the General Secretariat of the Synod and various dicasteries of the Roman Curia. The bishops, for their part, will have the task of reporting on the progress of their ad limina visits, documenting the decisions taken, the fruits achieved and the difficulties encountered. This follow-up seeks to ensure that the orientations of the Document are effectively applied, promoting a more synodal and missionary Church.
One of the highlights is the call to inculturate pastoral solutions, respecting local traditions and challenges. This reflects a flexible and dynamic approach that recognizes diversity within the unity of the Church. At the same time, it underscores the importance of seeking new forms of pastoral accompaniment and ministerial structures that respond to the needs of specific communities.
The synodal journey, far from concluding with the publication of the Document, is understood as an ongoing process. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, its ultimate goal is to rejuvenate the Church, to renew her commitment to the Gospel and to advance towards full and visible Christian unity. The Pope considers that synodality not only interprets hierarchical ministry, but enriches it, marking a style of walking together in communion and diversity.
Doctrine and pastoral practice
The Document also puts into perspective the relationship between doctrine and pastoral practice. Recognizing the need for doctrinal unity, it opens space for different interpretations and applications on specific issues, always in fidelity to the Gospel and under the guidance of the Spirit. This approach enables the Church to respond better to contemporary challenges, acting as a living witness to the faith in the midst of the complexities of today's world.
Finally, the Synod is presented as an instrument to learn and develop ever better the synodal style, understanding that this process involves both geographical and interior dimensions. This requires a continuous openness to the Spirit, who guides the Church towards greater harmony and communion with Christ, her Bridegroom. The Pope concludes by reiterating the need for concrete deeds to accompany the words shared, trusting that the Holy Spirit will sustain this journey of renewal and mission.
