Reclaiming synodality

Abstract

Against the background of the inveterate politicization and polarization of synodical practice, this article aims to reclaim synodality as a spiritual pathway, in the spirit of Pope Francis’s current initiative. It argues that participation in synodality is the birthright of Christians and that the widest consultation is mandated. Synodality calls for an organic model of the church that is inimical to hierarchy and top-down forms of leadership. Synodality, so understood, has the potential to revitalize the church, not least in evangelization.