The Pope assured that synodal listening cannot dispense with the authority of the episcopal college while affirming that walking together “is the lifestyle and mission of the Church.”
“Authentic synodality requires by its nature the listening and participation of all the baptized, according to the vocation of each one, but it cannot dispense with the authority conferred by Christ to the college of bishops, with the successor of Peter at its head,” said the Pontiff in a message sent to the promoters, speakers and participants of the theological covenant “What type of bishop in a synodal Church?”, which is celebrated in Italy from October 6 to 9.
Receive the main news from ACI Prensa by WhatsApp and Telegram
It is increasingly difficult to see Catholic news on social media. Subscribe to our free channels today:
The text was signed on his behalf by the Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and sent to the Prior General of the Camaldolese Congregation of the Order of Saint Benedict, Fr. Matteo Ferrari.
During these four days, participants will focus on the figure and ministry of the bishop in a synodal Church, seeking to clarify that a synodal style and form of Church cannot be developed without rethinking the ministry, according to Vatican News.
The Pontiff showed his appreciation for the initiative aimed at considering, in its theological and ecclesial depth, the principle of synodality and the figure of the bishop as a respectable authority “custodian and witness of the faith,” according to the message disseminated by the Synod of Bishops.
The Supreme Pontiff hopes that the study days “raise a renewed understanding that walking together is the style of life and mission of the Church,” the message finally reads.
Victoria Cardiel
Victoria Cardiel is a journalist specialized in social and religious information issues. Since 2013, he has covered all Vatican news for various media, such as the Spanish news agency Europa Press, or the weekly newspaper of the Archdiocese of Madrid, Alfa y Omega.