Promoting a “Synodal Church”

Pope Francis portrays synodality as central to the renewal and future of the Catholic Church, a way of journeying together, listening, of collaborative discernment, and being more participatory and inclusive. Having made his vision for a synodal Church clear in a pivotal 2015 speech, Francis has held a synod dedicated to synodality (2021-2024). Critics, however, say the concept is vague, undermines the Church’s hierarchical structure, has excluded conservative and traditional groups and, given manipulations of previous synods during this pontificate, may be being used to push for radical change of doctrine and morals. Proponents of synodality insist it is not about changing Church teaching, but rather finding new ways to live out the Church’s mission in today’s world.