The Synod on Synodality’s final document: What you need to know

Oceania delegation to the Synod second assembly with Pope Francis. Photo courtesy synod.va/Langarica

Pope Francis has marked a significant shift in Church governance by adopting the final document of the Synod on Synodality without the customary apostolic exhortation.

The 52-page report, approved by 355 synod members on Saturday, outlines transformative proposals to renew the Church.

“This document emerges from a two-year consultative process and reflects 1,135 amendments from diverse voices,” a source stated.

Compared to its 2023 predecessor, this document features more actionable recommendations and more explicit structural guidelines.

Organised into five sections, the document advocates for five forms of conversion: spiritual, relational, procedural, institutional, and missionary.

Among the primary proposals are strengthening pastoral councils at parish and diocesan levels, regular ecclesiastical assemblies, and enhanced ecumenical dialogue.

The document asserts that the “authority of the bishop… is inviolable” while adding that it “is not without limits.” It also encourages revising canon law to clarify the decision-making roles.

In a pivotal move, the document stresses there is “no reason or impediment” for women to take on leadership roles in the Church, leaving the question of women’s access to diaconal ministry open for further discernment.

Increased female participation in clergy formation and decision-making processes is also advocated.

Lay involvement will significantly boost, with proposals for a more significant presence in synodal assemblies and Church governance, alongside new procedures for selecting bishops.

While Pope Francis declared the synodal path “completed,” the document emphasises the need for an implementation phase to integrate synodality as a core element.

It promotes financial transparency and abuse prevention measures, noting, “The need for healing, reconciliation, and rebuilding trust has resounded throughout the synodal process.”

The reforms reflect one of the most extensive consultative efforts in Church history, blending traditional teachings with modern pastoral needs to foster inclusivity and transparency in governance.