The Paul VI Hall once again became the logistical epicenter of the Synod, where the 368 members will remain until the end of October to discuss the direction of the Church.
Pope Francis opened the first session. In his speech, he gave some key points about what he wanted for this Synod. He said that his decision to unite lay and consecrated people was in coherence with the Second Vatican Council.
POPE FRANCIS
The presence in the Synod of Bishops of members who are not bishops does not diminish the “episcopal” dimension of the Assembly. And I say this because of some of the comments that have gone back and forth. Still less does it imply any limitation or derogation from the proper authority of the individual Bishop and the Episcopal College. Rather, it points to the form that the exercise of episcopal authority is called to take in a Church that is conscious of being constructively relational and therefore synodal.
But, Pope Francis said that this inclusive conception of episcopal ministry is not without potential dangers. For example, this one.
POPE FRANCIS
Breaking communion by pitting the hierarchy against the lay faithful. It is certainly not a matter of substituting one for the other, excited by the cry: now it's our turn. No, this does not work. Now it's our turn, lay people; now it's our turn, priests. …. This does not go away. Instead, we are asked to practice together a symphonic art.
Other speakers during the afternoon were Cardinals Grech, Hollerich and Aguiar Retes.
TR: JD
