The Vatican continues to prepare the October 2019 Synod on the problems of those who live in the Amazon and the consequences the region's abuse have on the world's ecosystem.
It has just released a preparatory report and questionnaire that was sent to bishops and institutions from the region to prepare the working document that will guide the Synod's discussions.
This text reflects the pope's concern regarding indifference to the situation of slavery and abandonment of the Amazonian people, as well as exploitation of the region for political and economic interests.
MSGR. FABIO FABENE
Subsecretary, Synod of Bishops
“A basic institution in the Amazon is Repam, the Panamazonian Ecclesial Network. It has already commissioned dozens of assemblies in the territory, with people, to obtain real, concrete facts in this synodal process.”
CARD. LORENZO BALDISSERI
General Secretary, Synod of Bishops
“Although the Synod refers to a specific territory, the Panamazon – and for that reason it's called the Panamazonian Synod – the conclusions will have a wider relevance, because they refer to the whole Church and the future of the planet.”
The Amazon occupies an area of 4 million square miles. Thirty-four million people live there. Of them, three million are indigenous, frequently viewed as second-class citizens, subjected to humiliation and inhumane exploitation. The region contains 20 percent of the planet's fresh water, and between 30 and 50 percent of the world's plants and wildlife.
CARD. LORENZO BALDISSERI
General Secretary, Synod of Bishops
“The priority is attention to the natives who live there. Then, we will consider the issue of the environment, ecology, care for nature, for the common home.”
The document calls for respect for cultures, and that people search for “new paths” to bring them the Eucharist or to give women a more important role.
CARD. LORENZO BALDISSERI
General Secretary, Synod of Bishops
“The report is very well-done, above all thanks to Repam, which is there. We have identified the needs and urgencies, and the breakdown of the urgencies. It involves reflecting on the ministries, liturgy and theology. That's the work that begins now.”
As the name states, the Synod of Bishops will only involve bishops. The 102 who work in the Amazon will attend this one, as well as dozens of experts and important figures, who will help them find the best options for saving the heart of the planet and protecting the dignity of its inhabitants.
