Spirituality and Synodality in the Life and Mission of the Church

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The first webinar of the Institute of Spirituality in Asia for this year was held last February 26, Saturday afternoon. The topic was “Spirituality and Synodality in the Life and Mission of the Church” with Most Rev. Mylo Hubert Vergara, D.D., Bishop of Pasig as speaker.  There were seventy-eight (78) participants who attended in this webinar coming from different congregations and organizations. This does not include those who participated in groups.

The webinar covered the Synod of Bishops, emphasizing its role in fostering Synodality, a collaborative approach to decision-making. The Diocese of Pasig’s synodal process involved 3,063 participants, focusing on themes of communion, participation, and mission. The diocese aims to enhance pastoral actions and programs, particularly for the poor and marginalized. The meeting highlighted the importance of Synodality as a spirituality and lifestyle.

Bishop Vergara’s Presentation on Spirituality and Synodality

  • Bishop Vergara, begins his presentation by sharing a PowerPoint and explaining the title of his talk.
  • He discusses the experience of accompaniment in spiritual direction and the story of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus.
  • Bishop Vergara explains the concept of synodality as a walking together inspired by the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of listening and discernment.
  • He outlines the three types of Synod of Bishops: extraordinary general assembly, ordinary general assembly, and special assembly.

Preparation and Phases of the Synodal Process

  • Bishop Vergara describes the preparation process for the Synod of Bishops, including the diocesan, national, continental, and universal phases.
  • He explains the diocesan phase, where consultations are conducted in parishes and sectors, and the national phase, where consolidated reports are submitted to the Synod General Secretariat.
  • The continental phase involves meetings to discuss the first draft of the Instrumentum Laboris, and the universal phase is the celebration of the Synod in Rome.
  • Bishop Vergara emphasizes the spiritual nature of the synodal process and the importance of listening and discernment.

Diocese of Pasig’s Synodal Process

  • Bishop Vergara shares the diocesan pre-synodal consultation process in the Diocese of Pasig, including the training of facilitators and the use of digital platforms for consultations.
  • He highlights the participation of various sectors, including the deaf community, police officers, inmates, medical frontliners, and youth servants.
  • The diocesan pre-synodal meeting was held on December 4, 2021, to finalize the diocesan report for submission.
  • The diocesan report includes responses on themes of communion, participation, and mission, with specific recommendations for improving programs and addressing the needs of the poor and marginalized.

Testimonies and Reflections from Participants

  • Bishop Vergara shares testimonies from participants, including a deaf community member, a lady military officer, a solo parent, an LGBTQ+ person, a street vendor, and an active youth servant.
  • The testimonies reveal aspirations for spiritual life, hope to belong to the church, and desire to participate in church activities that uplift their spirits.
  • Participants express their dreams for the diocese, including unity, stronger faith, clear and inclusive programs, and concrete programs for the poor.
  • Bishop Vergara emphasizes the importance of walking together as a pilgrim church and living synodality as a lifestyle.

Q&A Session and Closing Remarks

  • Participants ask questions about the continuation of the synodal process, the involvement of different religions, and the challenges of the short timeline for consultations.
  • Bishop Vergara responds by emphasizing the importance of the synodal process as a lifestyle and the need for ongoing engagement with the flock.
  • He shares the diocese’s approach to voter empowerment and the importance of discerning candidates for public office.
  • The webinar concludes with a certificate of appreciation for Bishop Bergara and an announcement of future lectures on synodality and interfaith dialog.