Devendra Kumar
The recently concluded Synod on Synodality, a historic gathering of Catholic bishops and laypeople, has resulted in a comprehensive document outlining the need for fuller female participation in church governance. The month-long meeting aimed to reform the Catholic Church and foster a more welcoming and inclusive environment. While some paragraphs generated intense debate, none were rejected, a testament to the organizers’ success. This departure from the traditional hierarchy-dominated decision-making process marks a significant shift, as laypeople and women were given an equal voice alongside bishops.
The Synod on Synodality saw a significant increase in lay participation, with many laypeople playing a crucial role in shaping the discussions and recommendations. This has led to some controversy, with critics arguing that the inclusion of laypeople as voting members is illegitimate. Cardinal Gerhard Mueller, a staunch opponent of the synod, believes that the gathering cannot be called a Synod of Bishops when laypeople have the same voice as bishops. However, Rev. Timothy Radcliffe, a British Dominican, praises the inclusion of laypeople, saying it reflects the spirit of a synod. Radcliffe emphasizes that the gathering is not about making decisions, but about seeing how the Church can be church in a new way.
Pope Francis’ commitment to his vision of a more inclusive and welcoming Church remains unwavering. He has called for research on allowing women to become deacons to be released within a year, a significant step towards greater female participation in church governance. This move is not without precedent, as a ministry of female deacons existed in the early Church. However, the idea has been banned for centuries, and many conservatives argue that opening it up would be a Pandora’s Box that would risk schism.
Despite the controversy and debate, the Synod on Synodality marks a significant step towards greater inclusivity within the Catholic Church. The final recommendations or conclusions from the second session, planned for next October, will be presented to Pope Francis, who will then consider them for his future document. As Rev. Radcliffe cautions, the synod is not about making decisions, but about exploring how the Church can be church in a new way. The Church’s journey towards greater inclusivity continues, and Pope Francis’ commitment to this vision remains unwavering.