Une expérience vivante de l’Église synodale : L’assemblée continentale des Églises orientales catholiques (13-18 février 2023)

Abstract

In the synodal process initiated by Pope Francis in October 2021, the Eastern Catholic Churches are regarded as the equivalent of a “continent”. The Pope believes that their apostolic tradition and synodal experience play a pivotal role and contribute significantly to the entire Church. Convening in a synodal assembly termed “continental” in Lebanon from February 13 to 18, 2023, the six sui juris Eastern Churches – Maronite, Greek-Melkite, Chaldean, Syriac, Coptic, and Armenian – along with the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Latin dioceses of the Arabian Gulf, emphasized the importance of unity in diversity and delved into the theological and pastoral dimension of synodality. This article aims to analyze the content of the final continental report addressing themes such as common witness, ecumenism, liturgical reform, and managing pluralism in such a diverse religious context. Drawing from the assembly’s adopted recommendations, the article puts forward some avenues for reflection on the continuation of the synodal process in the Middle East region.