Dear Parishioner,

(Original Post: Oct. 24, UPDATED Oct. 25)
This past many weeks, I have received question about the latest on the Synod that is ongoing at the Vatican. In general, there is nothing to actually to say about details of what is being shared at the Synod since Pope Francis has called all members in the Synod to ensure confidentiality. Some social media influencers and outlets have criticized this approach of keeping the details of the discussions in the sessions confidential. I realize that this may seem somehow undemocratic, but to be blunt, this is not a democratic process, but a synodal process which is, ironically the focus of the Synod. Remember it is a "synod on synodality" where the participants (the Church throughout the world) have been invited to pray, listen, and share their hearts. That means millions if not a billion have already had their chance to participate at the level which was proper to them. I would be cautious of those who continue to argue as if their voices were not part of the process. This is not a synod on a particular topic such as the recent Synod on the Amazon or Synod on the Family. My concern is the worry that so many people have expressed which has been solely fueled by pundits outside of the current level of the process. I've read that synods are non-historical or that this particular synod is just another tool of the so-called heretical Pope Francis — neither of which is true. I urge you all to discern carefully about any voices not actually involved in the current level of the synod's process. (Note: the day after publishing this post, a letter was released from the general assembly in the Synod. See link below). I vividly remember hearing from worried parishioners about the Synod on the Amazon as it was happening. When it was all said and done, nothing doctrinal or earth-shattering was concluded. I found it curious that those who were so worried never came back to me sharing that they were thankful that no heresy was declared or that they were mistaken to be so worried. There will always be pundits and those who disagree. but, remember the Holy Spirit is guiding the Church. Her history, given its checkered past of human failures while never erring in doctrine, confirms that truth to me.

So, instead of sharing any commentary, given I am not in the current synodal phase, I recommend reading from Bishop Robert Barron's latest article entitled, "A Day at the Synod." Here's an excerpt from Bishop Barron's article that stuck out to me without detailing the topics participants are discussing:

"The overall mood of the synod I would describe as businesslike and serene. Important and controversial matters are being discussed, and it is very clear that not everyone is of the same opinion, but I have not heard one raised voice or polemical tone. Very occasionally, following an intervention, a smattering of applause might be heard, but typically, each speech is met with a respectful silence."

This still may not be enough for those who are distrustful and demand doctrinal clarity. Remember, the focus of this synod is to learn the process synodality whereby the Church reflects by listening and walking with each other. I want to urge us to have no fear, trust the Holy Spirit, and consider reducing or being more aware of one's consumption of the "news" from outside pundits regarding the Synod.

Click here to read Bishop Barron's article.

Click here to read a message from the participants at the Synod.

Blessings,

Fr. William Holtzinger
Pastor
Holy Trinity Catholic Church
Beaverton, Oregon