The Church has rediscovered the joy of walking together. If there is a definition that can best summarize the first session of the XVI General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, it is this one. And if there is an image that can clearly explain the theme of synodality, it is the picture of the tables of the more than 400 participants: round tables where cardinals sat next to bishops, and bishops and cardinals next to lay men and women, consecrated men and women, young and old.
Apparently, this can be considered a minor detail but, in reality, it represents one of the important keys to understanding the entire synodal session. It is not by chance that Pope Francis himself, during the course of the General Congregations, sat at one of these round tables, bracketing the formality of the hierarchy and emphasizing the relationship of fraternity in membership.
Mutual listening and the sharing of experiences, both personal and ecclesial, are some of the specific features of synodality that favored the new method of work of the round tables, especially when dealing with burning issues: the future of missionary work, the valorization of ordained ministries, the empowerment of all the baptized, the role of women, the reactivation of ecumenism and interreligious dialogue, support for people far from the faith and the poor, the welcome of those who are different, the defense of minors and the vulnerable, and a true understanding of authority.
The participants in the Synod knew how to express their points of view, open their hearts, even disagree at times, but never in opposition. They did this by standing side by side and looking directly into each other's eyes: thanks to these round tables, they were able to build stable friendships and solid relationships that could change the future of the Church.
