Rwandan Catholic Bishops recently completed a vital training focused on fostering ‘true missionaries of synodality’ through initiatives conducted by the school of Synodality. Participants aimed to enhance their ecclesial mission while integrating teachings from the Synodal path. Notable figures remarked on the communal aspect of this training and its foundational role in achieving a more united Church in Rwanda.
Catholic Bishops in Rwanda participated in a five-day training organized by the country’s “school of Synodality,” aimed at developing “true missionaries of synodality.” The training, which occurred from March 2 to March 6, included members of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda (CEPR), various clergy, religious figures, and approximately 50 lay delegates. Discussions focused on enhancing the Synodal Church’s mission in Rwanda, guided by the principles outlined in the Synodal path.
Bishop Edouard Sinayobye of Cyangugu Diocese emphasized the assembly’s objective as shared participation in nurturing ‘missionaries of synodality.’ This initiative is intended to transform ecclesial life within Christian communities. Participants referenced the extensive 52-page Final Document from the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, discussing key themes derived from the synod experience and engaging in Lectio Divina for deeper understanding.
Bishop Sinayobye remarked that the synodal journey has been a timely grace, expressing the Church’s desire for communion and unity and the intention to move forward together, caring for all members of the community. Fr. Giacomo Costa, a Consultor for the General Secretariat of the Synod, facilitated the sessions and reflected on the achievements of the listening phase, highlighting the significant efforts of Rwandan diocesan synod teams.
Fr. Costa noted that the implementation of the Synod is reliant on previously tested methods and that the experiences garnered must inform future actions. He stressed the importance of community consultation and the transformative power inherent in actively listening to one another, crucial to the synodal experience.
Moreover, he recognized the importance of the collective responsibility held by all baptized individuals in the Church’s mission, lauding the participation of Rwandan Diocesan teams. The training concluded with an acknowledgment from Mario Cardinal Grech, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, who stated that the Synod on Synodality is ongoing. He indicated that the Final Document serves as guidance for continuing the Church’s journey towards implementation, emphasizing the need for contextuality and enculturation tailored to the diverse histories and cultures of the local Churches.
In conclusion, the training of the Catholic Bishops in Rwanda by the school of Synodality is a pivotal step toward enhancing the Church’s mission. The program encourages participation from all members of the community, reinforcing the importance of communion and unity. As reiterated by Cardinal Grech, the process of synodality is a continuing journey of enculturation and adaptation to each Church’s unique characteristics and needs.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
