CV NEWS FEED // Amid tensions and internal disagreements, the Italian Synodal Assembly has delayed the release of its final document, originally set for this spring, after many delegates rejected the proposed draft for not being “bold enough” in its reforms.
According to an April 7 report from Daily Compass, the release of the final document has been postponed until fall.
The delay reflects deeper tensions within the synodal process, as some delegates pushed for a more “prophetic” and “courageous” document, while others seemed to advocate for a more moderate approach, according to the report.
Progressive leaders in the synod claimed that some tried to hinder the momentum for change by attempting to “freeze the process” from the top, while reform advocates remained open to what they believed were changes “inspired by the Spirit.”
“On the other hand, there were those who believed that the event represented the definitive ‘suicide’ of the Synod at the very moment of its conclusion,” the Daily Compass reported.
The synodal assembly also faced increasing criticism for its structure and goals. Observers have described it as artificial, with participants selected based on ecclesiastical political criteria rather than theological or canonical ones. Some critics argue that the synod’s conclusions were personal opinions of the delegates rather than a truly representative, theologically grounded body, according to the Daily Compass.
At the grassroots level, the synodal process has struggled to gain traction. A majority of Italian Catholics were unaware of the ongoing discussions, with participation largely limited to a small, recurring group of individuals, many of whom joined out of obligation rather than genuine interest.
Despite this, according to the Daily Compass, the synod’s influence will continue to be felt — mostly negatively — as efforts to push the changes forward are expected to intensify by October.
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