From the Editor’s Desk

Oct 04, 2024

By Patricia Pereira
The Synod on Synodality, taking place from October 2 to 27 in Rome, is an important time for the Church. This second phase of the Synod seeks to shape the Church’s future by embracing a synodal approach, emphasising listening, dialogue, and communion. For Catholics, it’s crucial not only to stay informed but also to actively pray for the success of this Synod and the participants, including the four delegates from our region — Archbishop Julian Leow, Fr Dr Clarence Devadass, Anna Teresa Amandus, and Dr Christina Kheng. This gathering has far-reaching implications for the local and universal Church, as well as for each of us.

Pope Francis has stressed that the Synod on Synodality is one of the most significant initiatives of his papacy. He envisions a Church that listens closely to the People of God, especially those on the margins. In a world increasingly divided, the Pope calls us to rediscover what it means to walk together — synodality comes from the Greek synodos, meaning “together on the way.”

The heart of the Synod is discerning the voice of the Holy Spirit, expressed through the prayers and experiences of the faithful. Thus, the Synod isn’t an event just for those in Rome; it concerns the entire global Church.

It’s easy to dismiss the Synod as something for bishops and theologians in Rome. However, this would be a mistake. As Pope Francis has warned, “Indifference is a great sickness in our time.” The Synod is about each of us — every Catholic who professes faith in Christ. The Church is not a monolith; it’s a community of believers called to journey together, and we each play a part in shaping this journey.

This phase of the Synod will address crucial issues — how to promote unity amidst diversity, how to engage young people, the role of women in the Church, and how to respond to social and environmental crises. These are not abstract matters but deeply connected to our lives in our parishes, communities, and families. The decisions made will impact how the Church engages with the world for years to come.

The decisions made during this Synod will ripple through our experience of the faith, from how we celebrate the sacraments to how we engage with other Christian communities and serve those in need. If we remain indifferent, we miss an opportunity to participate in the Holy Spirit’s work of guiding the Church.

Our delegates carry the unique responsibility of representing Southeast Asia’s perspective. Their participation is not just symbolic — it’s a vital contribution to the universal Church. They bring our region’s hopes, concerns, and faith to Rome, ensuring that our voices are heard. Their presence reminds us that the Synod is not just about “the Church in Europe” or “the Church in Rome” but about the Church in Malaysia, Singapore, and every part of the world. We must support them with our prayers.

Pope Francis has consistently emphasised the need for prayer, especially during times of discernment. “Without prayer, there will be no Synod,” he said, highlighting that prayer is the foundation upon which the Church builds its future. The outcome of the Synod is not just a matter of discussion and debate; it is deeply spiritual. Our delegates need our prayers for wisdom, courage, and openness to the Holy Spirit.

For those of us not present in Rome, prayer is our way of participating. We must pray for clarity and wisdom for our delegates as they face complex issues. We must also pray for unity, that this Synod will not foster division but instead bring the Church closer together, united in Christ’s mission.

The Synod on Synodality is an opportunity for every Catholic to renew their commitment to the Church. It challenges us to reflect on our faith — are we listening to one another? Are we open to new ways of engaging with our communities? Are we willing to embrace the diversity within our Church while remaining rooted in the Gospel?

As the Synod unfolds, let us remain informed, engaged, and, most importantly, prayerful. The decisions made in Rome will shape the future of the Church, but it is our collective prayers and participation that will ensure the Church remains faithful to the mission Christ entrusted to it. As Pope Francis reminds us, “A synodal Church is a Church of participation and co-responsibility.” Let us take that call seriously and, with hearts full of faith, accompany all the delegates in prayer, trusting that the Holy Spirit will guide them in truth and love.