The Synod on Synodality (2021-2024) as an Institution, Historical-Theological Perspectives and Questions

Massimo Faggioli

doi:10.46553/teo.61.143.2024.p77-96

Authors

Massimo Faggioli Villanova University, (Philadelphia, Estados Unidos) https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6574-5674

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46553/teo.61.143.2024.p77-96

Keywords:

Synod, Vatican II, Synodality, Collegiality, Conciliarity

Abstract

The pontificate of pope Francis has brought about a new momentum, an acceleration of the dynamics of the ecclesial conversation, and the Synod on synodality (2021-2024) is the culmination of this acceleration. At the same time, it is not clear yet whether Francis wants to bring this movement to a conclusion or if it will remain open in a process. This article gives some historical-institutional perspectives that are important for comprehending the contours of this question central to Francis’ pontificate but also for the Catholic Church in the 21st century.

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Author Biography

Massimo Faggioli, Villanova University, (Philadelphia, Estados Unidos)

He is a full professor in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at Villanova University (Philadelphia). He is a member of the steering committee of the project “Vatican II: Legacy and Mandate,” a multi-volume intercontinental commentary on Vatican II. In 2023 he was elected to the editorial board of the international theological journal Concilium.

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