“For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission”.

368 voting delegates from six continents have gathered for the Second Session of the Sixteenth Assembly which commenced on 2 October after a preparatory retreat. The Assembly has scheduled discussions in five parts in line with the Instrumentum Laboris*.

So far, participants have focused on the topics: Foundations; Relations; Pathways; and, Places, with the concluding session to commence on 18 October.

Throughout the Assembly, participants have engaged in "Conversations in the Spirit" – listening to presentations, reflecting in silence, and sharing insights in small groups to discern the guidance of the Holy Spirit collectively.

The aim is that these spirit-led discussions will pave the way for concrete actions and reforms, leading to a more inclusive, participatory, and missionary Church that truly embodies the spirit of synodality.

After the Foundations module, participants focused on three crucial working themes:

Relations

This topic emphasises the importance of cultivating genuine relationships within the Church community, characterised by mutual listening, respect, and collaboration. Participants were guided by the image of the Church as a dynamic web of relationships rather than a rigid hierarchy. Key points discussed included: encouraging a culture of open dialogue and mutual support among clergy, religious and lay people; ecumenical and interfaith dialogue; addressing social issues and promoting social justice; and fostering solidarity with marginalised and vulnerable communities as integral aspects of the Church’s mission.

Pathways
During these discussions participants focused on processes of communal discernment, decision making, and the roles of various Church members in these processes. Discussions included developing comprehensive programs for the formation of clergy and laity; focusing on synodal practices and leadership; supporting individuals in discerning their vocations, whether to ordained ministry, religious life or lay ministry; and reinforcing the Church’s commitment to evangelisation and service, particularly in addressing contemporary challenges, such as climate change and social inequality.

Place
Guided by the idea that the church occupies both physical places and metaphorical spaces, participants discussed the significance of the Church’s presence in mission in different contexts and environments. Topics discussed included: recognising and empowering local churches as vital centres of synodal life and mission, respecting their unique cultural and social contexts; ensuring the Church’s presence and support in marginalised and neglected areas; and the role of sacred places in nurturing the spiritual and communal life of the Church and how they can be made more accessible and welcoming.

The ongoing discussions at the Synod aim to translate these themes into actionable strategies and practices that will shape the future of the Church. The emphasis is on creating a more inclusive, participatory, and mission-oriented Church, deeply rooted in the principles of synodality.

*The Instrumentum Laboris is the working document guiding the synodal process which encapsulates insights gathered from the first phase of the synodal process, drawn from extensive worldwide consultation.