Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Catholics must consider diverse perspectives to address the major issues facing the church, according to Bishop Daniel E. Flores of Brownsville, Texas. Speaking at a news conference on October 3, Bishop Flores emphasized the importance of listening to Catholics from various backgrounds and experiences.

"Perspective is not the enemy of the truth. It’s the normal way of the church. That’s why we have four Gospels," said Bishop Flores, who was chosen by Pope Francis as one of nine president delegates for the Synod of Bishops in 2023 and again this year.

Bishop Flores highlighted that last year's global listening process and synod assembly were designed to help members learn from different viewpoints. He stated, "The central reality is to be aware that the perspective approaches the same mystery, but from its own context."

He further explained that his diocese, located on the Texas-Mexico border and characterized by poverty and bilingualism, offers unique insights into how Jesus Christ reveals himself. "There is a voice there of the people that has something to say about how the Lord Jesus shows himself," he noted.

Listening requires discipline, Bishop Flores remarked. "If it were easy for everyone to listen, we would all do it," he said. The synodal process involves patient listening to gain a complete understanding or "the face of Christ."

The aim of the synod is to merge local, diocesan, national, and continental perspectives with those heard at last year's assembly to form a unified voice representing not just one person or country but the entire church. "We are searching for the 'we,'" he stated.

Jesuit Father Giacomo Costa, special secretary of the synod, pointed out that last year's assembly aimed to recognize diverse experiences as blessings. He recalled attendees being amazed by previously unimaginable church experiences.

Father Costa mentioned that current efforts focus on identifying areas of agreement and disagreement as well as potential opportunities within these discussions.

St. Joseph Sister Maria de los Dolores Palencia Gómez addressed women's roles in the church—a recurring topic during consultations—by noting progress despite cultural differences in pace: "A path is being carved and is already bearing fruit."

"The gifts of women and their contributions to a synodal church are being recognized more and more," she added while stressing faster progress with respect for cultural contexts through dialogue with women themselves.