Archbishop Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo called for patience, discernment, and a commitment to God’s values in the ongoing synodal process of the Catholic Church, urging the faithful to embrace the journey despite worldly challenges and expectations.
In his homily on Sept. 22, the prelate offered clarity on the significance and purpose of the synodal path, as the Church prepares for the second session of the Synod in Rome this October.
“The meeting in Rome is not a place for each country to present a report, but a place for concrete work to determine the path we should take,” he said.
He said the Synod is an opportunity to collectively discern the way forward, rather than just a forum for delivering conclusions.
Archbishop Isao pointed out that the synodal process might not lead to immediate or concrete decisions, stating, “There may not be any concrete decisions made. Also, this October meeting will not be the end of everything.”
He emphasized that the synodal journey is an ongoing process and that the Church must view it as the beginning of a continuous effort to embody synodality.
“From now on, the Church will always continue to strive to be a synodal Church. This is because the Church, the People of God, is by its very nature synodal and continues to walk together,” he explained.
He acknowledged the various opinions and misconceptions about the Synod, including questions about whether it signifies the introduction of democracy into the Church or represents a new political ideology.
Addressing these concerns, Archbishop Isao said, “However, that is not the point. The purpose of the current Synod is to concretely embody and live the image that is at the origin of the birth of the Church, the walk of the Virgin Mary and the Lord Jesus, and the walk of the Lord Jesus and his disciples.”
Archbishop Isao reminded the faithful that the synodal path requires time, effort, and above all, patience. He acknowledged that this journey is not without difficulties, as it requires confronting opposing opinions and societal norms.
“This path of synod, which we walk together while continuing to discern the guidance of the Holy Spirit, is not an easy one,” he stated. “It takes time and effort, and above all, it requires patience.”
He expressed reaffirmation that, even in the face of challenges, the Church must remember that God finds value in the path of suffering and self-sacrifice.
“At the heart of God’s plan of salvation is always the suffering of the cross. As we walk the path of synod together, we will face various difficulties. We will be at the mercy of various opposing opinions. We will encounter the barriers of common sense. We may hesitate when we think about the impact of our decisions. But it is at such times that we must remember that God finds value in the path of suffering and self-sacrifice,” he said.
