Synodality in the Church and for the Church: between ecclesial reality and the instrument of its reform

Abstract

In the context of the progress of the synodal process that is taking place throughout the Church, disturbing voices are being raised about a possible change in the Church’s existing doctrine. According to critics of synodality, it is concerned only with adapting to the conditions of the world without referring to revelation or by cutting itself off from it. It seems, however, that in Pope Francis’ intention, the essence of synodality boils down to a deeper and more enthusiastic missionary activity. The Church remains a sign of salvation for all nations, but it must continue to search for the tools through which the Gospel of Christ will reach people and draw them into the Christian life. The aim of this article is to consider synodality in the context of the nature of the Church and to indicate what, according to the Pope, constitutes its essence. The first part of the article analyses Lumen Gentium, while the second part refers to the teaching of Francis.