The Contribution of the Synod on Synodality Towards a Systematic Theology and Praxis of Leadership

The word “leadership” scarcely appears in Catholic magisterial documents on the Church’s life and ministry. Where it is used, the term is almost always co-identified with ordained ministry and its meaning is ambiguous. In the wake of the Synod on Synodality 2021-2024, a major shift has begun. Leadership emerged as a key issue in the synod consultations in terms of how it is exercised and by whom. The emerging theology of synodality also paves the way for leadership to be more explicitly recognized as an essential dynamic in a synodal church, extending beyond ordained ministry. In light of the Synod experiences and Final Document, leadership can be seen as a crucial driving force of synodality, comprising several key interventions. These include 1) orienting the community towards mission and transformation; 2) listening and taking decisions through communal discernment; 3) promoting charisms, vocations, and holistic development of all persons; 4) establishing effective structures and processes for participation; 5) embracing mutuality, co-responsibility, and inter-dependence; 6) cultivating communion and harmony in diversity; and 7) recognizing the primacy of divine grace. It is a call incumbent upon men and women, clergy and laity alike.