Vatican Issues New Guidelines for Synodal Church by 2028
The Vatican has issued new guidelines for implementing the proposals from the 2024 Synod of Bishops on synodality. The 24-page document, 'Pathways for the Implementation Phase of the Synod', released on July 7, aims to make the life of the church more synodal by examining new practices and structures. The mission of proclaiming the Kingdom of God is the ultimate goal.
The implementation phase, which began in November 2024 and will continue until October 2028, involves various church leaders and organizational representatives. Bishops, pastors, and church councils are among those participating in dialogue and fostering mutual understanding. They will work together as a community of Christians, as seen in documents like 'Kirchengemeinschaft auf dem Weg' and synodal decisions.
The local churches play an active role, reaching out to diverse communities beyond the parish. Engagement should extend to schools, hospitals, prisons, and digital platforms. The diocesan or eparchial bishop initiates and oversees this phase, with synodal teams and participatory bodies being essential. The synod's final document serves as the point of reference throughout.
The new guidelines provide a roadmap for bishops and synodal teams to implement the synod's proposals. By October 2028, the implementation phase aims to have made significant strides in achieving a more synodal church, ultimately serving the mission of proclaiming the Kingdom of God.
