ASF Face of the Synodal Church 02— Priests and Deacons in a Synodal Church
The roles of priests and deacons are fundamental to the Church’s synodal journey. The recent Synodal Assembly has highlighted the collaborative relationship between priests and bishops, forming a unified presbyterate, while also emphasizing the significance of the diaconal ministry in serving the People of God through the Word, liturgy, and charity. Within this context, the Assembly has expressed gratitude to our priests and deacons and called upon Christian communities to provide support through prayer, friendship, and collaboration.
From parish work to missions, service among marginalized communities, and engagement in culture and education, priests and deacons engage in various ministries. Priests and deacons must live in proximity to people, welcoming and listening to all, while cultivating a deep personal spirituality and a life of prayer. They are required to reconsider the exercise of authority, modeled after Christ's humility and servanthood.
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Clericalism is an obstacle to ministry and mission, stemming from a misunderstanding of the divine call and viewing it more as a privilege than a service. The formation of deacons and priests requires special attention. It needs to be challenged from the earliest stages of formation by ensuring close contact with the People of God and through concrete service-learning experiences among those most in need. It is important to avoid the risks of formalism and ideology that lead to authoritarian attitudes and impede genuine vocational growth.
To exercise ordained ministry in a context of co-responsibility, one must be aware of their capacities and limitations, ensuring the integration of a realistic approach to human formation with the cultural and spiritual dimensions of formation, as well as formation for discipleship.
Different proposals for the formation of ordained ministry are suggested, taking into account the missionary and synodal dimensions of the Church, and ensuring the adoption of a synodal style in the
