Preparing for Synod 2024: Towards a synodal and missionary Church
Cardinals Grech and Hollerich write to bishops across the world explaining the next stages of the synodal process in view of next year’s second and final session of the Synod of Bishops on synodality.
Keeping the faith in South Sudan when all else is lost
“The Pope’s care for South Sudan has undoubtedly positively influenced the positions of the government and oppositions and favoured the peace agreement and the path to a government of national unity,” writes Bishop Christian Carlassare.
The Pope’s special look towards Africa
“We were very happy about the last Pope’s visit to Africa. He repeatedly implored the leaders to make peace because the poor are suffering,” says Cardinal Berhaneyesus Souraphiel.
Africa’s leading role in the Synod reflects its growing influence in the Church
“Synodality, therefore, is a great help, especially for those countries that experience conflicts within themselves because it opens up new horizons and new forms of dialogue and conversation,” says Archbishop Andrew Nkea Fuanya.
The Church in Africa is on the march
“We must tell the crowds that Christ is here, in this house church, Christ dwells in the marketplace, he is present everywhere,” says Cardinal Dieudonne Nzapalainga.
Church in Germany is more polarised than ever before, says Cardinal Woelki
Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki of Cologne has expressed strong concern about the state of the Catholic Church in Germany.
Pope Francis reiterates criticism of church reform in Germany
Pope Francis has once again criticised the reform efforts of the Catholic Church in Germany.
Church reform dialogue in Germany continues despite Vatican concerns
Coinciding with another German bishop officially approving blessings for same-sex couples in his diocese, the reform dialogue in Germany is set to enter its next round despite concerns raised by the Vatican.
Pope has not accepted Woelki’s resignation, canon law expert believes
Pope Francis has not accepted the resignation offer submitted by Cologne Archbishop Rainer Maria Woelki, according to an assessment by the Freiburg-based canon law expert Georg Bier.
Bishop Overbeck praises Synod on Synodality
Bishop Franz-Josef Overbeck of Essen has given a positive assessment of the Synod on Synodality of the Catholic Church which ended on Sunday.
Cardinal Kasper calls for more room for women in the Church and more respect for homosexuals
German Cardinal Walter Kasper has called for the role of women in the Church to be upgraded and for greater respect to be shown towards homosexuals.
Synod on Synodality faces possible institutional crisis
On Monday afternoon, the Vatican Communications Office announced that the adoption of a “Message to the People of God”, originally planned for Monday midday, would probably be postponed until Wednesday.
