The Synod is fundamentally a movement of the Spirit, calling participants to discern and journey together. To deepen this awareness, the participants of the XVI General Assembly dedicated a special time for retreat and prayer on September 29 and October 1.
During this time, Synod members from around the world gathered in the Synod Hall, reflecting on the insights shared by Sr Maria Ignazia Angelini, OSB, and Fr Timothy Radcliffe, OP. Mother Maria Ignazia, during her meditation at Lauds on the feast of St Jerome, spoke of the thirst for God as the hidden source of synodal dialogue. She invited all present to 'make room for astonished listening that repositions us and prepares us for this new beginning of walking together.' Her words highlighted the importance of openness and contemplation in the journey ahead.
Fr Radcliffe chose four resurrection scenes from St John's Gospel that he said would help 'shed light on how to be a missionary synodal Church in our crucified world': 'Searching in the Darkness,' 'The Locked Room,' 'The Stranger on the Beach' and 'Breakfast with the Lord'.
On October 1, following the Penitential Vigil presided over by Pope Francis in St Peter's Basilica, the assembly heard testimonies from those who have been victims of profound sin in the world. These stories brought to light the reality of suffering that requires the Church's attention and compassion.
Sister Deema, from the war-torn city of Homs in Syria, shared her story, deeply marked by the wounds of war. Laurence, a South African baritone, spoke courageously about being abused at the age of 11 by a priest, bringing attention to the ongoing need for healing and accountability. Additionally, Sara, Regional Director for Tuscany of the Migrantes Foundation, along with Solange from the Diocese of Massa and Carrara Pontremoli (originally from Ivory Coast), offered their testimonies about the harsh realities of migration in the Mediterranean, especially focusing on the experiences of women.
In response, seven Cardinals stood together at the end of the vigil to ask for forgiveness, expressing shame for sins committed. Pope Francis, on behalf of all the faithful, then addressed a request for forgiveness to God and to all sisters and brothers of humanity. It was a powerful moment of collective repentance and a call for renewal.
As the Synod continues, let us all pray for its success. Let us remember that we are united in this journey, sharing in the mission to bring hope and healing to the world.
You can stay informed by following the public sessions via the Vatican News broadcasts.
Picture credit: ©synod.va
