The final document of the Synod, approved today in all its 155 paragraphs, marks a significant moment of change for the life of the Church.

The document demands substantial commitment from the bishops regarding transparency and accountability, while efforts are underway to grant more space and power to women within the Church. Two key concepts emerge from the text: "relationships" and "bonds," representing a new way of being Church. Local Churches are at the heart of the missionary horizon, essential for the experience of plurality within synodality, with the laity increasingly taking on a leading role.

The document is divided into five parts. The introduction clarifies that the Synod is a "renewed experience of encounter with the Risen One." The invitation to contemplate the signs of Christ's wounds urges us to recognize the world's sufferings, from children terrorized by war to social injustices.

The Synod proposes an ecumenical journey, aiming at Christian unity and continuing the inspiration of the Second Vatican Council.

The document emphasizes the need for a Church capable of nurturing authentic relationships. "The care of relationships is not a strategy, but the way in which God has revealed Himself." Testimonies of pain, particularly from women, highlight the difficulty in establishing meaningful bonds. It is urgent for this renewal to resonate in all contexts.

At the center of the document are "charisms, vocation, and ministries for the mission." The need for greater participation of women and laity in ministries is highlighted. Synodal spirituality is essential: "Without spiritual depth, synodality becomes merely an organizational expedient." Ecclesial discernment takes a prominent place in the document and becomes a spiritual practice requiring a climate of trust and transparency.

Mutual trust is fundamental for constructive dialogue between those in authority and the People of God. All this must be addressed by cultivating the exchange of gifts in a context of human mobility and digital culture. Unity in the exchange of gifts is the criterion for relations between Churches. To witness the joy of the Gospel, the People of God need integral and continuous formation. Promoting a culture of protection and spreading themes of social justice and intercultural dialogue is essential.

The document concludes with a reflection on salvation through relationships and an invitation to pray to the Virgin Mary, guiding us to be a People of missionary disciples.

The document is not merely a report of debates but a clear invitation to a "relational conversion" that emphasizes listening and mission. The Church is called to review its methodologies, involving all the baptized in a path of renewal.

In summary, the Synod has highlighted the tensions and hopes of a Church facing a phase of transition. While internal debates continue, the path towards a more synodal and inclusive Church seems charted, but the road ahead is still long and full of challenges.

• The final document is currently only available in the original Italian.
• Cover photo credits: Synod.va.
• We anticipate translations in other languages will be available soon.

Communications Office UISG