How to be a missionary synodal Church? That’s the question at the heart of the Instrumentum laboris (IL) for the upcoming session of the Synod of Bishops, which will take place from October 2 to 27. It will be the second session of the XVI Ordinary General Assembly, following the one in 2023. The IL – published on July 9, and presented at the Holy See Press Office – does not offer any “pre-packaged answers” but rather “indications and proposals”.
These regard how the Church, as a whole, can respond “to the need to be ‘synodal in mission.’” That is, to be a Church closer to people, less bureaucratic, where all the baptized are – within their different ministries and roles – co-responsible and participants in its life.
The document is structured in five sections: introduction, foundations, and three central parts. The introduction recalls the journey traveled so far and highlights the milestones already reached, such as the widespread use of the synodal methodology of the Spiritual Conversation. The foundations (nn. 1-18) then dwell on the understanding of synodality, seen as a path of conversion and reform. In a world marked by divisions and conflicts, it is emphasized, the Church is called to be a sign of unity, an instrument of reconciliation and listening for all, especially for the poor, the marginalized, and the minorities excluded from power. The foundations also give ample space (nn. 13-18) to reflection on the role of women in all areas of the Church’s life, highlighting “the need to give fuller recognition” to their charisms and vocation.” God chose women as the first witnesses and heralds of the Resurrection,” recalls the IL; therefore, “by virtue of Baptism, they enjoy full equality, receive the same outpouring of gifts from the Spirit, and are called to the service of Christ’s mission..”
In some cultures, the IL notes, “the presence of machismo remains strong”; therefore, the second synodal session calls for “a wider participation of women in the processes of ecclesial discernment and all stages of decision-making processes” along with “wider access to positions of responsibility in Dioceses and ecclesiastical institutions,” as well as in seminaries, institutes, theological faculties, and “an increase in the number of women judges in all canonical processes.” The suggestions also concern consecrated women.