Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Synod, outlined the objectives of the new process that will guide the implementation of the Synod on Synodality, as approved by Pope Francis. This process, culminating in the Ecclesial Assembly in 2028, is not about adding more tasks but about helping the Church embrace a synodal style in its journey forward.
Many believed that the Synod on Synodality had concluded with the second session of the Assembly in October 2023. However, Pope Francis, adhering to the Apostolic Constitution Episcopalis Communio, has reinforced the understanding of the Synod as an ongoing process rather than a single event. This process is structured into three phases: preparatory, celebratory, and implementative. According to Cardinal Grech, this shift requires a deep conversion of mentality within the Church, ensuring that the insights gained during the Synod are not merely documented but fully integrated into ecclesial life.
Pope Francis, as the unifying principle of the Church, has entrusted local Churches with the responsibility of applying the Assembly’s recommendations within their unique contexts. Many local Churches have already embraced this directive, demonstrating that the work never truly ceased after the Assembly.
The Roadmap to 2028
The coming years will focus on accompanying and evaluating the implementation phase of the Synod. Pope Francis, in consultation with the Ordinary Council of the General Secretariat of the Synod, has outlined a structured plan leading up to 2028. This plan does not override the autonomy of local Churches but encourages a collaborative approach, strengthening the bonds between national, regional, and continental ecclesial communities.
By 2026, local Churches will actively work on implementation at the diocesan level, fostering dialogue among clergy and laity to contextualize the synodal journey according to their own cultural and spiritual traditions. Cardinal Grech emphasized that this is not a repetition of the listening phase but a deepening of it. The goal is to create a dynamic exchange of experiences among Churches, culminating in gatherings planned for 2027 and early 2028.
Strengthening the Synodal Mentality
The Synod’s journey must not be confined to a select group of experts or those already engaged in ecclesial structures. Cardinal Grech reiterated that synodality must permeate the entire People of God, fostering an inclusive approach to Church governance. This requires a transformation in mentality, where participation in the Church’s mission is not an additional burden but an organic expression of faith.
To achieve this, local Churches must engage all members of the faithful in meaningful ways, ensuring that the synodal process is not just an administrative task but a lived experience of communion. The reactivation of synodal teams will play a crucial role in facilitating this engagement, bringing fresh energy to the implementation phase.
The Ecclesial Assembly of 2028
The upcoming Ecclesial Assembly, distinct from the Synodal Assembly, will serve as the culmination of this journey. Unlike previous Synodal Assemblies that focused on bishops, this Assembly will gather the entire Church to reflect on the fruits of synodality. Pope Francis envisions this as a moment of synthesis, where the global Church collectively discerns the effectiveness of the synodal path and offers insights for future developments.
Pilgrimage and the Jubilee Appointment
In October 2025, synodal teams will embark on a pilgrimage to Rome, underscoring the Church’s identity as a pilgrim people. This jubilee gathering will serve as both a celebration and a time for deepening synodal awareness. According to Cardinal Grech, this journey will highlight the unity of the Church, with all its members walking together in faith and communion.
The Final Document as a Roadmap
The Final Document approved in 2024 serves as a guiding framework for the next three years. It encapsulates the essence of synodality and provides a roadmap for the Church’s renewal. Cardinal Grech emphasized that this document is an extension of the Second Vatican Council’s vision, calling for a continuous conversion of relationships within the Church.
Ultimately, the message of the Synod is clear: all baptized individuals are both disciples and missionaries, called to foster a renewed encounter with Christ. The synodal process has demonstrated that a Church committed to dialogue, participation, and shared mission is not only possible but essential for the future of evangelization. As the Church continues this journey, the challenge remains to live out synodality not as an obligation but as a profound expression of faith and unity.
Source: Vatican News
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