Synodalność Kościoła w ujęciu papieża Franciszka

Abstract

Francis’ pontificate is marked by his efforts to make Catholics more sensitive to the synodal structure of the Church. In particular, the convening of the Synod on Synodality is central to discovering what synodality is, how to learn it and how to incorporate it into the daily life of the communities. What is therefore needed is an in-depth analysis of Francis’ teaching on synodality. The article presents the contexts of synodality, namely the evangelisation and the renewal of the Church. Then it discusses the proper pillars of Francis’ synodality, which involves encounter, listening and discernment. It has nothing to do with parliamentarism or abandonment of truth or the hierarchical structure of the Church. The synodality brings the sensus fidei into life and is expressed in the communion, participa­tion, mission triad. For synodality to work, its sources must also be known. The theological ones include the Revelation and the dialogue between God and man, the ecclesiology of the People of God and the communion, the action of the Holy Spirit, the diversity of charisms, the idea of co-participation, and the anthropology of relations. Among ecclesiastical sources are synods, collegiality of bishops, and bodies (e.g. councils) facilitating participation of the baptised. Finally, the experience of individual and community discernment in the Jesuit tradition is also crucial. The article also addresses the challenges facing the Church with respect to synodality. However, the challenges cannot stop the Church from following its path to attract people to the Gospel.