Embracing Synodality: A New Chapter for the Congregation

The Church, long accustomed to hierarchical structures reminiscent of ancient monarchies, is undergoing a profound transformation. Pope Francis' vision of synodality – a model of shared decision-making and communal discernment – is awakening the Church to a more democratic and participatory way of being. Our Congregation has embraced this call wholeheartedly, proactively implementing synodal processes even as the global synodal journey unfolded. Our recent General Chapter and EAD Assemblies serve as testaments to this commitment. Synodality transcends mere decision-making; it's a way of life characterized by deep listening, shared dreaming, and collaborative discernment rather than top-down directives. 

In our Delegation, we are translating this vision into action. Prefects of Apostolate and Formation are actively engaged in preparing action plans, fostering a collective ownership of the transformative journey. This requires a shift towards true partnership, where every member of the Delegation plays an active role in planning and executing projects within their communities and apostolates. Embracing synodality is not just about adapting to a new model of governance; it's about cultivating a more authentic and meaningful expression of our faith and mission.

Practicing synodality has the power to ignite a remarkable vitality and enthusiasm within our parish communities and youth groups. Across the globe, we hear stories of how this model of shared decision-making has transformed parishes and brought about new life. One such story comes from a parish where a long-time parishioner, who had never before spoken in public, found the courage to voice her thoughts in a parish gathering. Her suggestions, once shared, sparked a wave of change, eventually filling the church with new energy and participation. This moment of empowerment, through the gift of synodality, opened the door for many others to share their insights and help shape the future of the community.

In another instance, a group of young adults took the lead in animating discussions within their parish. Their enthusiasm and involvement led to tangible changes in the way the liturgy was celebrated, breathing new life into the worship experience. The parish, once feeling stagnant, began to thrive as these young voices helped to reimagine how they could actively engage with the sacred liturgy, encouraging others to participate more fully.

One particularly inspiring example of synodality in practice came from 

a parish that organized an ‘open mic night,’ a unique opportunity for anyone in the community to offer suggestions and opinions on how the parish should be run. This initiative fostered a deep sense of ownership and agency among the parishioners, creating a space where all voices, young and old, could contribute to the direction of their parish. It was a powerful reminder that the Church is not merely a place of passive worship, but a living, breathing community, where everyone’s input is valued in discerning God’s will together.

Practicing synodality in our own situations invites us to be creative. It calls for us to embrace new ways of being the Church, as we listen attentively to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. When we allow creativity to guide our ministry, we open ourselves to the Holy Spirit's transformative work in our communities. In this dynamic process, synodality is not only about decision-making; it is a spiritual journey of listening, discerning, and responding together. It is through these creative, Spirit-led endeavors that we, as the Body of Christ, become more fully alive, embodying the true spirit of communion that lies at the heart of the Church.

Fr. Jijo Kandamkulathy, CMF Delegate Superior