One Church, One Path, One Mission!

On October 10, 2021, Pope Francis formally opened the "Synod on Synodality," and by October 17 of the same year, the Diocesan Phase commenced in parishes across the global Catholic Church. For an ordinary layperson, this may have initially seemed like just another ecclesiastical event. Yet, as time unfolded, we came to realize that it was something far deeper.

Admittedly, the Synod on Synodality was met with a grain of skepticism by some traditional Catholics. Even within the clergy, it sparked intense debates, revealing divisions regarding its overall scope. Because of its profoundly inclusive nature, some even perceived it as an attempt to introduce a new dogma or reshape the fundamental tenets of the Catholic faith.

But what exactly is synodality? Is it truly a new doctrine?

The word "synod" is derived from the Greek synodos, an ancient and venerable term within Church Tradition rooted deeply in the themes of Divine Revelation. It points directly to the Lord Jesus, who presents Himself as “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6)—indeed, early Christians were originally known as "followers of the Way." In this light, synodality is far more than a series of ecclesial meetings, episcopal assemblies, or internal administrative tasks. It is the specific modus vivendi et operandi (way of living and operating) of the Church as the People of God. It manifests and gives substance to her identity as a communion when all her members journey together, gather in assembly, and take an active part in her evangelizing mission.

The Synod is a historic invitation to reflect on and voice opinions regarding communion and participation among the entire People of God—the laity, the pastors, and the bishops alike. From local parishes to dioceses worldwide, these diverse voices and perspectives were synthesized into the Instrumentum Laboris (Working Document) that fueled the historic assemblies in Rome. Pope Francis continuously emphasizes that this synodal process is an experience of the Church operating as a singular, living body. As an ordinary layperson, this beautifully shifted my own preconceptions; I had always viewed synods as exclusively episcopal affairs, believing the laity had no seat at the table.

Today, the Church continues to face the challenging demands of a modern world. It cannot remain oblivious or insensitive to prevailing social issues. It has almost become a cliché to hear the secular world demand: “Where is the Church in a situation like this? What has it done to help the people?” At times, a rigid interpretation of the separation of church and state complicates the Church’s prophetic role in protecting its flock. Furthermore, consumerism, systemic corruption, political pressures, economic crises, socio-cultural shifts, environmental degradation, and even internal religious abuses present severe setbacks.

Yet, the Catechism clearly reminds us: "We are the Church." As Catholics, our shared responsibility stems directly from the Sacraments of Initiation—Baptism and Confirmation. Through Baptism, we are commissioned as disciples. As Matthew 28:19-20 mandates: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age." The Sacrament of Confirmation further seals and solidifies this missionary commitment.

In the midst of these turbulent times, the Holy Father calls us back to this essential synodal journey—walking together in communion, listening to one another, and remaining docile to the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Pope Francis boldly asserts that without synodality, there is no Church. For this transformation to take root, it must involve all the faithful at the grassroots level, cutting across various sectors of society and prioritizing the voices of the laity. The reflections of both clergy and laity must resonate in harmony, especially those coming from the marginalized, the forgotten, and those living on the geographical and existential peripheries. This is an ongoing process where the greatest fruit is the lived experience of a Church unified in mission. It is a tedious, lengthy path because it dares to touch the very core of human experience.

The Holy Father further clarifies that the Synod is not a parliament, nor is it a political investigation into public opinion. It is a profoundly "ecclesial moment" whose primary protagonist is the Holy Spirit—for without the Spirit, there is no Synod. Our consultation gatherings should never be highly intellectualized, rigidly structural, or elitist. Instead, they must be characterized by freedom, openness of views, relational closeness, radical inclusion, and deep compassion.

Together, as one living body, we are called to look inward and honestly answer: A synodal Church, in announcing the Gospel, "journeys together." How is this "journeying together" happening today in your particular local Church? What steps is the Spirit inviting us to take in order to grow in this shared walk?

Admittedly, "journeying together"—laity, clergy, and the Bishop of Rome—is an easy concept to put into words, but a demanding one to put into practice.

Nevertheless, the vision of a Synodal Church serves as a profound breakthrough, awakening us to the immense impact of everyday participation. It underscores the urgent need to empower every member for the Church’s mission. The Church is a living body where every part must contribute to its vitality. As St. Paul wrote to the Corinthians: "As a body is one though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also Christ" (1 Cor 12:12). Viewed through a synodal lens, we recognize that our Church’s truest stronghold is this very unity in diversity.

As a simple layperson, it is my fervent prayer that this historic convergence of the People of God will offer us all an opportunity to renew our faith, open our hearts to the Church, feel its maternal compassion, reignite the flickering embers of our missionary commitment, and ultimately heal the wounds of an anguished faith.

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