Members of the Teresian Association from around the world have been involved in the diocesan phase of the synodal consultation which began in October 2021. They did so through their parishes, by joining other groups of lay people, or as TA groups with friends.
Now that this phase has been completed, it is time to find out how the first part of the synodal process was carried out in the TA at the local level.
Maddalena Pievaioli, General Secretary of the TA and our liaison with the Vatican Synod Office, used a questionnaire to gather information about the experience of TA members around the world so far.
In this way we have learned that participation has been taking place through parishes and dioceses, as part of national teams or by joining other associations. Some also joined academic discussion groups, organisations or social projects. In practically all the countries where the TA is present, there have been members involved in the synodal process, sometimes taking on roles of animation and facilitation.
A more participatory and inclusive Church
The process sparked a desire to be more involved in the life and functioning of the Church, and for it to become more participatory and inclusive. In some places, there is a perception that individual action is growing.
There is a call for greater participation of the laity in the life of the Church and there is also a demand for their presence in the training of candidates for the priesthood.
It is true that women are now being taken into consideration a little more in the life of the Church, although the steps are very slow and there is still a long way to go. There are now opportunities for the participation of young people, and this is a direction in which we need to move forward.
Dialogue between the Church and society is another concern, and there is a demand for openness, as well as progress on moral issues and for a welcoming attitude towards people of other faiths.
On the other hand, difficulties have been noted in making progress along the synodal path due to a lack of interest in some dioceses and specific parishes, lack of information, delays in starting the process, and so on.
In the synod working groups there were few people from the peripheries, and little involvement by young people or by anyone other than those who already participate regularly in the life of the Church.
Moving forward
The Spirit invites us to be a Church where we go forward together, where we are inclusive, decentred, in open dialogue and non-threatening, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus; where there is shared responsibility, no privileges, and a horizontal, participative community; where faith is shared and discerning; that is creative in inviting and accompanying; at the service of God’s Kingdom and the poor; that values each person's voice, dignity and gifts; where the clergy listen, learn from the laity and let them do their work; and where there is real equality between men and women.
The experience of synodality has only just begun and there is a call for continuity. Synodality must become a way of life in the Church and thereby overcome clericalism.
The need for theological and liturgical renewal was also pointed out. We would like to have more accessible and simpler language, as well as a more attractive style and joyful celebrations. We want the Church to be more attentive to the signs of the times, to occupy a prophetic place in society, and to engage in dialogue with those who are different.
We, as Teresian Association, hope to see the role of the laity being strengthened. We would like to be more involved at a social and ecclesial level, while building stronger relationships with other associations. We want to be active members using our experience and our charism.
TA Info.
TA translators team.