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

Members of the Synod of Bishops have shared their experiences of a new way of being church, emphasizing the importance of synodality. Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary-general of the synod, highlighted the significance of the experience gained by participants since 2021. "For me, personally, this document is important, but there is a document that was not written, which is the experience," he stated.

Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, relator general of the synod, noted that members learned to walk together and must continue doing so in the future. He emphasized that sharing the Gospel remains the ultimate goal. "We not only have to teach the document, but we also have tried to give people the experience in order to become a real synodal church on mission," he said.

The session focused on fostering a church for all baptized individuals and avoiding conflicts between conservatives and liberals. "We have gathered to have a synodal church for all the baptized," Cardinal Hollerich remarked.

When asked about changes resulting from this year's session compared to 2023's first session in Rome, Cardinal Grech pointed out that continued listening has been beneficial. Cardinal Hollerich observed that mutual listening and prayer helped overcome previous divisions. "Something new is growing, a new reality of being church together," he explained.

Jesuit Father Giacomo Costa highlighted how local churches can become more welcoming and participatory communities. He stressed an entirely new perspective on seeing the church as "pilgrims rooted in movement." The focus should be on openness and inclusivity within communities with diverse populations.

Father Costa added that parishes should serve as open hubs and meeting points for everyone in wider communities while maintaining unity through the Eucharist. "It can no longer close itself off in its own reality," he concluded.