As the preparatory document for this synod expresses it well in number 7, the last two synods of 2018 and of 2019 have brought out a strong demand to give more space for participation to women in the Church and to involve them more in the decision-making processes by giving them more responsibilities. This is also the perspective behind the recent institution of the lay ministry of catechist and the opening of access to the instituted ministries of lectorate and acolyte to women.

The synodal process is a wonderful opportunity to make women’s voices heard and to bring their experience, sensitivity and reflection to the discernment of the Church, and thus to strengthen this necessary walk together between men and women in the service of the Church’s mission. This is why among the 10 themes proposed to the synodal consultation at n.2 Listening we find these questions: “To whom does our particular Church have a “lack of listening”? How are listened the laity, especially young people and women? How do we integrate the contribution of consecrated men and women? What is the place of the voice of minorities, the marginalized and the excluded?

Women are particularly involved in this synodal process, they are often the driving force behind synodality and have a great desire to “walk together”. On this 8th of March we want to give thanks for all their commitment to the service of synodality and to thank warmly all those who, in the local Churches as well as in the Synod commissions, invest themselves with heart and competence to help the Church to live this synodal conversion to which God is calling us.

 

Sr Nathalie Becquart