Vatican criticism of the synodal path: Don’t be put off

The warning from the Vatican shows how little knowledge there is of the synodal path. And how weak the nerves are there when it comes to Germany.

The dry report from Rome shows once again how bad the relationship between the Catholic Church in Germany and the Holy See is at the moment. The 16 lines, which are to be interpreted as a warning against reforms, have no sender and no date – and are likely to have been circulated with the Pope’s consent.

Its content shows how little knowledge the Vatican has of the synodal path and how weak their nerves are when it comes to Germany. Because the German Catholics have so far not intended – as it says literally and with a malicious tone – “violation of the church community and threat to the unity of the church” with their reappraisal and reform process.

cause for speculation

Because the connection with the Catholic world church has been pointed out again and again at the previous synodal assemblies. In addition, the Presidium of the Synodal Path has repeatedly tried to communicate directly with Rome on this matter – unfortunately in vain. So far, no one has been invited to an interview – which, by the way, gives plenty of reason to speculate about the role that German Catholics in Rome really play.

Nevertheless, on this side of the Alps one did not always act very skilfully. When numerous bishops and priests not only carry out the blessings of homosexual couples forbidden by Rome, but also publicly approve them. And if there is also discussion about introducing a synodal council made up of equal numbers of bishops and lay people for future decision-making – a body that sounds decidedly Protestant – then it shouldn’t be surprising if people in Rome react sensitively or even rudely.

Learning from the synodal path

Even if the relations between the Vatican and German Catholics, which are not warm anyway, will cool down a few degrees further, neither the Bishops’ Conference nor the Central Committee of Laity should be deterred by the note from Rome. Finally, one must keep in mind that the synodal path is primarily aimed at coming to terms with the terrible sexual abuse. And abuse in the Catholic Church is not limited to Germany. Seen in this way, Rome and the Catholic world church could possibly even learn something from the German synodal path in the medium term. And if the impetus for one or the other reform is also included, that would be good too.