After three years of discussion, debate and, at times, division, the concluding act of Pope Francis' Synod of Bishops on synodality began yesterday, with the opening of a two--day spiritual retreat before the 368 participants in the second , and final, Roman assembly start their conversations, the Crux website reports today (Oct. 1, 2024).
As during the first session of the synod last year, the retreat will be led by Dominican Father Timothy Radcliffe and Benedictine Mother Ignazia Angelini, organized into four "meditations" over the two days. The retreat will also feature a Mass tonight in St. Peter's Basilica, and a penitential liturgy tomorrow evening in the presence of the pope, in which victims of abuse, of war, and indifferenc to migrants will offer testimony.
Forgiveness will be asked for a litany of sins, including abuse, "using doctrine as stones to be hurled," and war and violence, as well as offenses against creation, indigenous populations, migrants, women, families, and youth.
Of the 368 participants, 272 are bishops and the rest are priests. deacons, male and female religious, and laity.
October 2 marks the official opening of the synod itself, with a Mass in St. Peter's Square at 9:30 a.m. Rome time, and the first working session that afternoon at 4 p.m., which will begin with a greeting from Pope Francis.
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