By Wesley Omondi
VATICAN CITY, OCTOBER 5, 2024 (CISA)— Pope Francis opened the Second Session of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops with an address delivered at the Paul VI Hall in Vatican City on October 2, 2024.
The Synod, convened under the theme of building a more synodal Church, highlighted the Holy Father’s vision of inclusivity, unity, and the guiding role of the Holy Spirit in shaping the Church’s mission. He emphasized that the journey’s focus remains on spreading the peace of Jesus Christ to every nation.
“Ever since the Church of God was convened in Synod in October 2021, we have travelled together a part of the lengthy journey to which God the Father constantly calls his people,” Pope Francis said.
The Holy Father underlined the importance of the Holy Spirit in leading the Church through its mission. Quoting a spiritual text from the fourth century, he stressed how the Spirit bestows dignity on all through Baptism.
“The Holy Spirit is a sure guide and our first task is to learn how to discern his voice,” the Pope reflected.
He acknowledged the difficulties that arise from following the path of Christ, particularly in times of sorrow and injustice. Pope Francis remarked on the human tendency to despair, but reminded the faithful that the Holy Spirit is always present to offer hope.
“The Spirit consoles us in moments of sorrow and grief,” he said, adding that the gift of hope from God is unceasing.
Pope Francis urged the Church to embrace forgiveness, highlighting that no one is excluded from God’s mercy calling on the faithful to extend forgiveness as a reflection of their own experience of being forgiven. He spoke passionately about the importance of mercy in the life of every Christian. Reflecting on the humility required in the Christian journey, Pope Francis noted that humility draws people back to their roots and reminds them that all are equal before God.
“Humility brings us back to earth, to the ground, and reminds us that we are no better than others,” he said, urging the Church to maintain a compassionate and humble disposition in its mission.
In a moment of reflection on the Church’s journey since the days of Pentecost, the Pope reminded the faithful of their responsibility as “those who have been shown mercy.” He encouraged them to continue journeying together towards the fulfilment of God’s love.
“We know both the beauty of that journey and the fatigue that it entails,” the Holy Father said.
As the Synod progresses, Pope Francis reiterated the importance of a synodal Church that seeks communion and unity. He acknowledged the evolution of the Synod of Bishops, originally instituted by Pope Saint Paul VI in 1965, and the growing inclusion of lay people and consecrated persons in this process. Pope Francis closed his address with a prayerful message of hope, asking all to remain open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
“With a heart filled with hope and gratitude I express my prayerful hope that all will open themselves willingly to the action of the Holy Spirit,” he concluded.
