Synodality
Synodality (from Greek συν together + ὁδός way, journey) is how the Catholic Church describes its form of government, differentiating it from democracy and monarchy.
It is described by the International Theological Commission as "the decision to journey together" and "a prophetic sign for the human family, which needs a shared project capable of pursuing the good of all".[1]
Meaning
Synodality denotes the particular style that qualifies the life and mission of the Church. Meaning much more than an administration based on synods, it is the specific modus vivendi et operandi of the Church, where all members journey together, gather in assembly and take an active part in her mission.[2] It is based on processes of listening, dialogue, and community discernment, in which each and every person can participate and contribute. [3]
Usage
The first document defining synodality was published in March 2018.[1] Pope Francis used the term in an official speech in 2015[4] It is seen as one of the keywords that characterizes the pontificate of Pope Francis.[5][6] It became more widely known as the name of the Synodal Path initiative (started in Germany in December 2019) and the Synod on synodality (started in Rome in October 2021).
References
- Synodality in the life and mission of the Church, a study lead by the International Theological Commission, published in March 2018
- International Theological Commission, Synodality in the Life and Mission of the Church (2 March 2018), no. 6.
- "Preparatory document, For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission". Synod of Bishops.
- Pope Francis, Address at the Ceremony Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Institution of the Synod of Bishops, 17 October 2015.
- Synodalität als Stärkung der Kirche (2021-09-20)
- Pope to Rome's faithful: Synodality expresses the nature of the Church (2021-09-18)