By chhotebhai
Kanpur, Dec 8, 2019: Taking a clue from the recently concluded Amazonian Synod held in the Vatican, Catholic Church Reform International, a body of reform minded Catholics, is seeking to have similar people’s synods in various countries. Plans are afoot in Brazil, Mexico, USA, Germany, Kenya, Australia and New Zealand. The word synod, though normally synonymous with bishops, actually means walking together, especially in the Lord’s presence, as on the road to Emmaus.
In India this initiative is being taken by the Indian Catholic Forum (ICF) that was formed earlier this year at the National Consultation “We Too Are Church” (V2RC) held in Kolkata. As a follow up, the second consultation V2RC II is being held at Mount Hosanna, Bharananganam, Kerala, from February 7-9, 2020.
V2RC II aims at informing, transforming and reforming, especially according to the far sighted teachings of Vatican II and the humane, pastoral approach of Pope Francis. Notably, the Amazonian Synod was a push from bottom to top, because it was a people’s initiative. This is so different from the top to bottom trickle down theory that seldom works, either in Govt or the church.
75% of the bishops that attended the Amazonian Synod voted in favor of married clergy, in itself a path breaking move. They also endorsed a greater role for women in decision making positions in the church, an emphasis on local culture to express the gospels and a deep concern for the environment.
The ICF is not an organization. It has neither membership nor bank account. It seeks to be a leaven in the dough that has no identity of its own.
Jesus told his disciples to read the signs of the times. Churches in the West are empty. Vocations have reduced to a trickle. Young people are not inclined towards organized religion. There is turmoil in the church in Kerala, the cradle of Christianity in India. No less a person than Pope Francis has said that clericalism is the biggest stumbling block for the growth of the Church. The country seems to be heading towards a totalitarian, unitarian regime, where Minorities feel insecure. V2RC II hopes to prayerfully address these issues with like minded lay leaders, priests and religious. All are welcome.
For program details please contact the ICF Convenor, chhotebhai, at noronha.kp@gmail.com 9415130822 and for registration contact ICF Coordinator Thomas John at joypal@nonviolence.com 9072119598.