Ruffini, Chairman of the Information Committee of the Synod of Bishops, announced on October 23 that the Synod has accepted the draft of the Letter to the People of God with applause. The “Comprehensive Report” is set to be released on the evening of Saturday, October 28th.
During the morning of Monday, October 23rd, participants of the Synod of Bishops gathered in the Paul VI Hall of the Vatican to discuss the draft of the Letter to the People of God. Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Church Synod, invited the Assembly to propose and accept “suggestions for minor modifications and additions, especially in the area of multilingual translation”. The letter is scheduled to be adopted and published on Wednesday, October 25th. Ruffini, Minister of the Dicastery for Communications and Chairman of the Information Committee of the Synod of Bishops, shared this news with reporters during a press briefing on October 23rd.
On the morning of October 23rd, participants attended a Mass celebrated by Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, Archbishop of Yangon, Myanmar, at St. Peter’s Basilica. Following the Mass, they entered the 16th session of the General Assembly, which was also attended by Pope Francis. Discussions during the morning session focused on the Letter to the People of God.
Ruffini mentioned that the “Comprehensive Report” will be voted on and released on the evening of Saturday, October 28th, in response to reporters’ questions. Cardinal Carlos Aguiar Retes, who was present at the briefing, explained that the content and format of future papal synods would depend on how each diocese implements the experiences discussed and lived out during the current Synod of Bishops.
There have been concerns raised about the participation of the laity as delegates during the Synod. However, Cardinal Christoph Schönborn addressed this issue stating that the Synod is still a meeting of bishops, even with the inclusion of non-bishops. Cardinal Schönborn emphasized that the Synod has expanded, allowing for a closer relationship with lay experts and their vital voices. He reassured that the essence of the Synod remains unchanged and that its experience has been unquestionably positive.
Cardinal Shönborn also addressed concerns regarding the Catechism of the Catholic Church and its impact on the LGBT+ community. He mentioned that he served as secretary of the group that compiled the Catechism and explained that only the Pope has the authority to amend it. He emphasized that the entire text should be read in full, as it deals with ethical theology and the objective order of man. Cardinal Shönborn stressed the importance of respect for all individuals, even if they are considered guilty, as everyone is a sinner but also deserving of acceptance from God.
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