Vatican City: On the eve of the second session of the Synod on Synodality, Pope Francis stressed the importance of the Catholic Church confronting its past transgressions and seeking forgiveness. During a penitential liturgy held at St. Peter’s Basilica, he articulated that acknowledging its sins is essential for the Church to effectively fulfill the mission entrusted to it by Jesus Christ. This reflection underscores a pivotal moment for the Church as it seeks to address its historical shortcomings and move forward in unity and purpose, reports Vatican News. (Photo courtesy: CNA)

“Sin creates wounds in our relationships—with God and among ourselves,” the Holy Father stated, addressing an audience of over 500 attendees. He posed a poignant question: “How can we be credible in our mission if we do not recognize our mistakes and strive to heal the wounds caused by our sins?”

During the service, bishops, religious leaders, and laypeople shared personal testimonies of the Church's failings, particularly regarding its impact on minors, migrants, and marginalized communities. Each confession was followed by a heartfelt prayer for forgiveness.

Cardinal Oswald Gracias from Bombay expressed remorse for the Church’s hesitance in promoting peace among nations. “To make peace requires courage,” he reflected, urging a commitment to dialogue over discord.

Sister Dima Fayad offered insights from her experiences in war-torn Syria, acknowledging how conflict can expose both humanity's darkest impulses and its capacity for solidarity and resistance.

Laurence, a South African survivor of childhood sexual abuse, lamented the Church’s history of secrecy and lack of accountability, which he said has eroded trust among survivors. He articulated the need for transparency to facilitate healing, noting, “The Church must acknowledge its failures to restore faith in its mission.”

Cardinal Sean O’Malley of Boston conveyed deep sorrow over the sexual abuse scandals, stating, “I feel shame when I reflect on the abuse of minors and vulnerable individuals, which has tarnished the sacred trust of our ministry.”

Testimonies during the liturgy also addressed broader societal issues. Sara Vatteroni, involved with La Fondazione Migrantes in Tuscany, spoke alongside Solange, a migrant from the Ivory Coast, about the perilous journeys across the Mediterranean, highlighting the urgent need for compassion and action.

Cardinal Michael Czerny, overseeing human development initiatives, expressed regret for the Church's role in environmental degradation and its failure to uphold the dignity of Indigenous peoples. He remarked, “We have transformed creation from a garden into a desert, and we must seek forgiveness for these actions.”

In addition, Cardinal Kevin Farrell acknowledged the Church’s shortcomings in defending the dignity of women and youth, while Cardinal Cristóbal López Romero voiced shame for neglecting the poor, urging a return to a “poor Church for the poor.”

Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández lamented the misuse of doctrine to justify inhumane treatment, while Cardinal Christoph Schönborn called for a more inclusive Church that values listening and participation, emphasizing the need for unity amidst diversity.

As the Synod on Synodality reconvenes, Pope Francis will celebrate Mass to open the session, encouraging a collective movement toward healing and renewal within the Church.