02/12/2024

News

Walking Together: Post-Synodal Assembly Reflections 2024

Walking Together: Post-Synodal Assembly Reflections 2024

 

In the first session of the Post-Synodal Assembly conferences, organized by the Office of the Synodality Initiative of the UISG, the UISG delegates to the Synod of Bishops shared their experiences and emotions during the event. The meeting was moderated by Sr. María Cimperman, the coordinator of the Synodality Initiative.

 

The session was held virtually and was attended by approximately 260 people, who had the opportunity to listen to the reflections of the four synodal delegates:

 

  • Sr. Mary Barron, OLA, President of the UISG and Superior General of the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of the Apostles
  • Sr. Pat Murray, IBVM, Executive Secretary of the UISG
  • Sr. Elysée Izerimana, SDN, Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth
  • Sr. María Nirmalini, AC, Superior General of the Apostolic Carmelite Order and President of the Conference of Religious in India (CRI)

 

The discussions addressed highly relevant topics, enriched by the contributions of the participants, who shared concrete experiences, theological insights, and practical suggestions.

 

During the meeting, there was a reflection on the synodal journey as a process of spiritual renewal and structural reform for the Church. The importance of placing synodality at the heart of the Church's mission was emphasized, making it more participatory and capable of responding to the challenges of the world, always promoting mutual listening. In particular, religious women were invited to reflect on how to live synodality within their congregations, even in contexts where there is no direct presence at the parish level.

 

The crucial role that women should play in the synodal process was highlighted. The Synod's effort to foster greater participation and equality among all members of the Church, strengthening more inclusive listening, was emphasized.

 

The need to renew religious practices and review the structures governing religious life, in order to make congregations more synodal and prepared to face contemporary challenges, was also underscored.

 

The concept of missionary discipleship was mentioned as central, highlighting the importance of a Church that conveys the joy of the Gospel, fostering continuous dialogue and attentive listening to the needs of the people. The Church’s mission was described as a call to "become a neighbor" and respond to the urgencies of the current world.

 

The synodal delegates emphasized the importance of deep listening, considered fundamental for an interior conversion and discernment that includes all voices, especially those that are marginalized. Only in this way can the Synod become a truly inclusive and participatory space.

 

The meeting concluded with a common reflection, inviting the promotion of synodality in everyday life. Among the topics discussed were the welcoming of Catholics from other rites, strengthening community discernment, and implementing synodal practices at the local level, even in the absence of formal parish structures.

 

Finally, a renewed commitment was made to build a welcoming, inclusive, and missionary Church, ready to walk united, with hope and confidence, in the face of the challenges of the present.