Among the many titles attributed to the Church, one of the most meaningful is the pilgrim Church. Indeed, it is a most fitting description, for the Church is always on a pilgrimage – a journey toward heaven, her ultimate destination. Along this journey, challenges and obstacles are inevitable. Only when we learn to face and overcome them together can we truly reach our goal.
Every journey becomes easier when we walk with companions who share a common vision. When minds and hearts are united in thought and action, the path becomes smoother. Yet, such unity is never easy to achieve. People differ in opinions, perspectives, and ways of thinking. Hence, disagreements are natural. Misunderstandings, stubbornness, and self-interest can easily cause divisions. The simplest and most effective way to overcome them is through dialogue.
This is especially vital for the Church. Throughout history, the Church has grown and flourished through mutual dialogue. She has consistently sought to resolve conflicts and work together for the common good – and has often succeeded. It is in this context that the vision of synodality proposed by Pope Francis finds its deepest relevance.
The Synod and synodality go hand in hand. Synodality fosters communion within the Church and reminds us of the importance of faith and hope. In simple terms, synodality is a way of living together in unity within the Church – reducing divisions and promoting dialogue. To build communion, we must be willing to listen, to remain silent when needed, and to engage in sincere conversation. This holds true not only within the ecclesial family but also in the wider society.
We all know that liturgical disagreements have disturbed the peaceful journey of our Church for quite some time. Internal divisions are among the gravest threats to any institution’s progress – they are self-destructive forces that corrode from within. While we may be strong or vigilant against external challenges, many among us fail to recognize internal ones until the damage is done. Many of our past difficulties arose in just this way. However, looking to the future with hope, let us face the challenges together. Our Master has taught us to forgive and to be patient – no greater model exists beyond His. As disciples of Christ, we are bound to imitate and follow that example. May this be a time to return to our first love.
Let us not chase after broken wells, deserts, or dry reservoirs, but rather return to Christ, the source of eternal life. Come then – let us walk together once more, like children of the same Father. Let us listen to one another, keep silence where silence is due, be open-hearted, and join hands in mutual love and fraternal harmony.
Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil
