The Identity of Ecclesial Synodality in the Teaching of the Final Document of the Synod of Bishops 2023-2024

The Synod of Bishops of 2023 and 2024 concluded with a Final Document, which today represents the Church’s most authoritative teaching on ecclesial synodality, not least because Pope Francis described it as his ordinary magisterium. The author aims to draw from the Final Document the identity of ecclesial synodality. This reality consists specifically in an activity carried out by pastors and faithful in the structures of synodality and is organized around gathering together, dialogue, discernment, and deciding for the good of the Church. The author emphasizes (following the indications of the authoritative text) that in synodal activity, pastors and faithful, because of the capacity received in Baptism, have the possibility of hearing the voice of the Holy Spirit as happened in the Council of Jerusalem. The activity of ecclesial synodality is therefore to be considered a sacred or liturgical action. The author concludes by proposing a modification of can. 212 §3.

Keywords: ecclesial synodality; gathering together; dialogue; discernment; decision-making; listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit; sacred or liturgical action.