The 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, commenced with a strong emphasis on synodality and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Pope Francis delivered the opening address at the Paul VI Audience Hall, setting the tone for the proceedings.

The Synod's General Secretary, Cardinal Mario Grech, and the Relator General, Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, followed the Pope Francis's address, emphasizing the goals, spirit, and method of the three-year synodal process initiated by the Pope in 2021.

Cardinal Grech highlighted how this synodal journey had helped the Church "grow in vigor" despite initial reservations and challenges. He stressed the importance of the Church becoming a sign and instrument of God's love in the modern world.

He echoed Pope Francis' vision that "A synodal Church is a Church of listening," emphasizing the importance of listening to the Word of God in the light of Tradition to understand God's will for today.

Cardinal Grech also emphasized the unity expressed by the Synod of Bishops, uniting the episcopate around the Bishop of Rome and fostering communion among all the People of God with their Pastors.

Cardinal Hollerich further elaborated on the synodal process, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit as the protagonist of the Synod. He stressed that a heart fully open to the Spirit's guidance is essential to respond to the call they have received.

Mission was a central theme in synodality, and Cardinal Hollerich urged synodal members to broaden their vision to address global challenges such as climate change, migration, wars, polarization, and consumerism.

He also emphasized the need for the Church to learn the "grammar of synodality" while preserving its basic rules of Catholicity. The work of the Synod, he noted, is not a parliamentary debate but a common work of discernment, aided by prayer.

The organization of the Synod's work involves General Congregations and smaller working groups, the Circuli Minores. These discussions will follow the method of "conversation in the Spirit," fostering consensus and discouraging polarization.

Cardinal Hollerich expressed hope that the Synod's work would lead to a "road map" for the next session, indicating consensus and areas requiring deeper reflection. The Synod of Bishops is poised to be a powerful instrument of unity and discernment in the Church's journey into the third millennium.