A recent meeting of the Aotearoa New Zealand Mixed Commission of Bishops and Religious Leaders focused on synodality, its tradition within Pacific cultures, and its possibilities as a means of listening to the voices of the marginalised and caring for our common home.

Australian Provincial Fr Asaeli Rass SVD, co-facilitated the meeting which was held from February 18-19 in Auckland, sharing some of the insights he gained from being a small group facilitator at the first assembly of the Synod on Synodality in Rome.

“I wanted to emphasise the multitude of significant issues that demand our attention, contemplation, and prayer if we are to share a Gospel that truly connects with our brothers and sisters across the varied and secular environments of New Zealand (and Australia), as well as the 2.3 million people in vulnerable neighbouring nations,” Fr Rass said.

“It is evident that we cannot address every concern in one sitting, nor can we achieve our goals in isolation.”

He said that during a spiritual retreat in Rome prior to the Synod, Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe OP “highlighted our collective incompleteness and interdependence, noting that we gather not in perfect unity but amidst diverse fears and hopes regarding the Church's future”. 

“Some are apprehensive about the journey ahead, while others yearn for transformative change, yet fear it may lead to division,” Fr Rass said.

“Regardless of these internal conflicts, we should embrace the insight of (theologian) Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, SJ, who encouraged us to trust in the gradual unfolding of God's work within us.”

Fr Rass said that in the Pacific Islands of Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga, the concept of synodality is embraced through the practice known as “Talanoa”, which translates to "talk" or "discussion".

“This unique form of dialogue fosters an environment where individuals can come together to express differing opinions without the pressure of reaching a consensus,” he said.

“This practice encourages the exchange of thoughts, fosters deeper connections, and supports joint decision-making, all within the comforting setting of the traditional kava bowl. This environment cultivates a welcoming space for honest dialogue. While the concept itself isn't exceptional, the unique element of attuning to the Holy Spirit adds an intriguing layer, especially as participants enjoy their kava, a traditional ceremonial drink in Oceania. If the concept of synodality is used as a weapon for forcing change of Church teaching or order, synodality would cease to be a true journeying with each other and with God.”

Fr Rass encouraged the Bishops and Religious Leaders to consider some of the questions surrounding the practice of synodality.

“How do you reconcile certain opinions that may lack depth, require further refinement, or even contradict the apostolic tradition and the Church’s magisterium?

“Conversely, some perspectives could be genuinely prophetic, offering innovative interpretations of tradition or valuable new actions.”

Fr Rass suggested that the method of ‘Conversations in the Spirit’ employed at the Synod on Synodality, could provide the path forward.

“I genuinely believe that Conversations in the Spirit provide a much-needed alternative in our frequently tumultuous world, showcasing a unique perspective that challenges traditional business norms,” he said.

“Although members of the Synod in my experience didn’t always see eye to eye, the synod process allowed us to navigate our differences with respect and understanding.”

 Fr Rass said Pope Francis has been emphasising that Catholics are encouraged to recognise that the Spirit communicates through those who are marginalised and excluded.

“Therefore, it is essential to listen to a diverse range of voices. By becoming a listening Church, the people of God can journey together on the synodal path toward a renewed evangelisation. Synod organisers advocate for what they term ‘radical inclusion’. No one should be left out.

“Synod documents highlight the importance of hearing from those who may not align with Church teachings, including atheists, former believers, and individuals from different faiths. It also extends to those who do not adhere to Catholic moral standards, such as ‘remarried’ divorcees, LGBTQ individuals in same-sex relationships, and those living together outside of marriage. Everyone is included.”

 In his presentation, Fr Rass also raised the role of women in the Church.

“There is a profound and troubling history of misogyny within Catholic and other Christian institutions and theological teachings, which sharply contrasts with the vital roles women play in the gospels,” he said.

“Women are essential to Jesus' ministry and the establishment of the early church. It is particularly significant that, after Jesus' death, the women remain at the tomb while the men flee.”

 Finally, he touched on the vocation of Consecrated Life, which he said is fundamentally anchored in the commitment to pursue God alone while equally loving both God and our neighbours, including creation.

Fr Rass said he was grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the meeting.

“The most significant aspect for me was the exchange of experiences, the openness of the bishops and religious leaders to hear one another despite their differing perspectives, and the substantial contribution from leaders towards the life and mission of God’s church in Aotearoa,” he said.

PHOTO: Fr Asaeli Rass SVD is pictured back row, third from right, with the NZ Bishops and Religious Leaders. (Photo by Gavin Abraham, NZCBC)