Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, has called upon male religious leaders to embrace their role as “engines of hope” in the Church’s journey toward deeper synodality. Speaking during the 103rd General Assembly of the Union of Superiors General (USG), held from May 21-23 in Sacrofano near Rome, Cardinal Grech emphasized the vital contribution of consecrated life in the ongoing renewal of the Church.

Quoting Pope Leo XIV, he reminded participants of the pontiff’s continuous call for a synodal Church — one that advances in unity, participation, and mission. “Pope Leo XIV urges us to continue on the road of synodality, building on the seeds sown during the 2021–2024 Synodal process,” the Cardinal said.

Focusing on the Assembly’s theme, “Consecrated Life: Engine of Hope in a Synodal Church,” Cardinal Grech highlighted how consecrated men are uniquely positioned to inspire and guide the Church toward communal discernment and collective reform. He underlined that the Church has now entered a pivotal phase — moving beyond the celebratory stage of the Synod to its real test: integration and implementation by the faithful.

“The Holy Spirit is the true driver of this reception,” Grech stated. “He works within the hearts of God’s people to bring about lasting reform.”

He also pointed out that religious life itself is rooted in practices of synodal dialogue, mutual discernment, and community leadership — principles now being extended across the wider Church. Cardinal Grech described consecrated life as a prophetic witness that helps embed the Gospel within diverse cultural contexts, making it not only heard but lived.

However, he was candid in acknowledging past failures. He warned that religious authority, when distorted, can result in severe violations of conscience and personal dignity — including instances of sexual abuse. True reform, he argued, demands more than punitive measures; it requires a transformation in mindset, leadership style, and Church culture.

Reflecting on Pope Leo XIV’s emphasis on mission, Cardinal Grech said the Church’s outward evangelizing energy must mirror its inward synodal dynamism. “The mission reflects the Church’s desire to involve everyone — clergy, religious, and laity — in its journey of communion and service,” he noted.

In closing, Cardinal Grech urged consecrated men and women — whether from ancient traditions or modern communities — to stand at the forefront of this spiritual and missionary renewal. “You are called to be the vanguard,” he said, “championing a Church that listens, walks together, and reaches out to the world with hope.”