Synod Daily Update

DAILY UPDATE AND SUMMARY OF
THE 2019 PAN-AMAZON SYNOD OF BISHOPS
Rome, October 6th to October 27th

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 1 ― Sunday, October 6th

Opening Mass and Homily of Pope Francis
In his homily during the Mass that officially opened the 2019 Amazon Synod of Bishops in Rome, Pope Francis quoted St. Paul, “the greatest missionary in the Church’s history” reminding the bishops that they are “pastors in the service of God’s People.” He reminded them “We are bishops because we have received a gift of God. We did not sign an agreement; we were not handed an employment contract. Rather, hands were laid on our heads so that we in turn might be hands raised to intercede before the Father, helping hands extended to our brothers and sisters.” This could well have been an indication that Francis was trying to lay the foundations for the laying on of hands to ordain married men as priests and women as priests―this was not explicitly said, but later events make it seem quite possible, even likely. He added: “We received a gift so that we might become a gift. Gifts are not bought, traded or sold; they are received and given away. If we hold on to them, if we make ourselves the center and not the gift we have received, we become bureaucrats, not shepherds. We turn the gift into a job and its gratuitousness vanishes. We end up serving ourselves and using the Church … Our lives are directed to service … We do not serve for the sake of personal profit or gain … Our joy will be entirely in serving, since we were first served by God, who became the servant of us all.” All of which is good and true―for Christ Himself said that He had come to serve and not be served, and that he who wanted to be first, must firstly be the servant of all.

Pope St. Pius X had warned that Modernists can be very conservative and traditional in one moment and then will suddenly switch gears by being Liberal and Modernist―Pope Francis was true to form in this regard. After his first few opening conservative remarks, he suddenly switched into “change”, “newness”, “daring prudence”, “bold prudence”, speaking of a Church “always on the move” and blasting those who have are “smothered by the ashes of fear and concern for defending the status quo” because “this is the way things have always been done.” Instead the Pope asked for a “fidelity to the newness of the Spirit.”

Here are a few extracts concerning this Church that is always on the move and always changing:

“The gift we have received is a fire, a burning love for God and for our brothers and sisters. A fire does not burn by itself; it has to be fed or else it dies; it turns into ashes. If everything continues as it was, if we spend our days content that “this is the way things have always been done”, then the gift vanishes, smothered by the ashes of fear and concern for defending the status quo. … For the Church is always on the move, always going out and never withdrawn into itself. Jesus did not come to bring a gentle evening breeze, but to light a fire on the Earth. The fire that rekindles the gift is the Holy Spirit, the giver of gifts. So Saint Paul says: ‘God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power and love and prudence’ (2 Timothy 1:7). Not a spirit of timidity, but of prudence ... Prudence is not indecision; it is not a defensive attitude. It is the virtue of the pastor who is … to be receptive to the newness of the Spirit … Fidelity to the newness of the Spirit is a grace that we must ask for in prayer. May the Spirit, who makes all things new, give us his own daring prudence; may he inspire our Synod to renew the paths of the Church in Amazonia … so that the fire of mission will continue to burn … To rekindle the gift; to welcome the bold prudence of the Spirit; to be faithful to his newness.”

The Pope then completed his homily along more conservative and traditional lines, saying that St. Paul exhorts us to “not be ashamed of testifying to Our Lord, but to take your share of suffering for the Gospel in the power of God” (2 Timothy 1:8) ... to bear witness to the Gospel, to suffer for the Gospel, … to live for the Gospel ... To preach the Gospel is to live as an offering, to bear witness to the end, to become all things to all people (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:22), to love even to the point of martyrdom … Dear brothers and sisters, together let us look to the crucified Jesus, to his heart pierced for our salvation. Let us begin there, the source of the gift that has given us birth. From that heart, the Spirit who renews has been poured forth (cf. John 19:30). Let each and every one of us, then, feel called to give life.”

As he finished his homily, Francis again seemed to indirectly lay the foundation for married male priests and women priests, by laying a heavy, thick foundation made up of so-called terrible plight “of our brothers and sisters in Amazonia” …”bearing heavy crosses and awaiting the liberating consolation of the Gospel, the Church’s caress of love.”

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 2 ― Monday, October 7th

Opening Prayers by Pope Francis near the tomb of St. Peter

The second day of the Synod, Monday October 7th, was the first workday of the Synod. It was also the feast of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary―hopefully an ominous omen for the Synod’s troop of Modernists and Liberals. The first two plenary sessions—called “general congregations”—of bishops, took place Monday morning and afternoon.

POPE FRANCIS opened the first plenary session with prayers near St. Peter’s tomb―hopefully it is not the Church being led to a tomb! A small choir sang the ancient hymn Veni Creator Spiritus (“Come, Creator Spirit”); and some representatives of the Amazonian indigenous people placed a canoe, fishing net, lit candles and placed relics of Amazonian martyrs on the ground in front of the tomb; and then the entire group, singing, processed with the objects to the Synod Hall. At least it was only singing―it seems like the dancing was left behind in Vatican Gardens some days earlier, on October 4th, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi.

In the day’s opening speech, Pope Francis asked the Synod participants to have a “pastoral heart,” to see and interpret the reality of Amazonia with the “eyes of a disciple.” He lamented the failures of what he called “prefabricated programs for ‘disciplining’ the Amazonian peoples,” and he urged a different approach ― which then, of course, must not be disciplined but more easy-going, avant-garde, tailor-made―even if the cut-of-the-cloth might not look very Catholic (but that is a mere guess, or an intuition).

Then CARDINAL LORENZO BALDISSERI, the 1st General Congregation of the Special Assembly of the Synod of Bishops for the Pan-Amazonian Region, who runs the general office of the Synod of Bishops, announced in his opening speech―on the theme: “Amazonia: new paths for the Church and for an integral ecology”―that the Synod would be very green, if not behind the ears, at least in its pursuit of an “integral ecology”―he pointed out that the ‘green’ measures that had been taken for the Synod, included an online registration process (saving printed paper); bags, pens and cups made with biodegradable material (no plastics used); and most significantly, the Synod was to be a “carbon neutral” synod. Hopefully the Pope, cardinals and bishops were dressed in biodegradable cassocks, pants, shirts, socks and shoes! Speaking of clothes, Cardinal Baldisseri also announced that, beginning with the Monday afternoon plenary session, synod members would be allowed to wear clerical suits rather than cassocks―an announcement that produced a hearty and loud round of applause.

The next item on the agenda was the presentation of the Introductory Report of the General Relator, CARDINAL EMINENCE, CLAUDIO HUMMES, OFM, Archbishop Emeritus of Sao Paulo, President of the Episcopal Commission for the Amazon of the National Bishops Conference of Brazil and President of the Pan-Amazonian Ecclesial Network (REPAM).

CARDINAL HUMMES very forcefully laid down the spirit of novelty (newness) and change, saying that “The theme [of the Synod] follows the broad pastoral guidelines characteristic of Pope Francis for creating new pathways. From the very beginning of his papal ministry, Pope Francis has emphasized the Church’s need to move forward. The Church cannot remain inactive within her own closed circle, focused on herself, surrounded by protective walls and even less can she look nostalgically to the past. The Church needs to throw open her doors, knock down the walls surrounding her and build bridges, going out into the world and setting out on the path of history. In these times of momentous changes, … It is moving forward that makes the Church loyal to its true tradition. Traditionalism, which remains linked to the past, is one thing, but true tradition, which is the Church’s living history, is something else through which every generation, accepting what has been handed down by previous generations, such as understanding and experiencing faith in Jesus Christ, enriches this tradition in current times with their own experience and understanding of Faith in Jesus Christ … One must not fear what is new. In his 2013 Pentecost homily, Pope Francis already expressed the idea that, «Newness always makes us a bit fearful, because we feel more secure if we have everything under control, if we are the ones who build, program and plan our lives in accordance with our own ideas, our own comfort, our own preferences… (…) We fear that God may force us to strike out on new paths and leave behind our all too narrow, closed and selfish horizons in order to become open to his own. Yet throughout the history of salvation, whenever God reveals himself, he brings newness ― God always brings newness ― and demands our complete trust.» In the Evangelii Gaudium (no. 11), the Pope portrays Jesus Christ as “eternal newness”. He is always new, He is always the same newness, “yesterday, today and forever” (Heb 13, 8) He is what is new. That is why the Church prays using the words, “Send forth your spirit and they shall be created, and you shall renew the face of the earth.” So we must not fear newness, we must not fear Christ the new. This Synod is in search of new pathways.”

“In his speech to Brazilian bishops during the 2013 World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, speaking of the Amazon as ‘a litmus test for Church and society in Brazil,’ the Pope proposed that the ‘the Church’s work needs to be further encouraged and launched afresh [in Amazonia], consolidating the results achieved in the area of training a native clergy and providing priests suited to local conditions and committed to consolidating, as it were, the Church’s Amazonian face.’ Pope Francis added, ‘In this, please, I ask you, be courageous’ … The history of the Church in Pan-Amazonia shows us that there has always been a great lack of material resources and not enough missionaries for the full development of a community with, in particular, an almost total absence of the Eucharist and other sacraments essential for daily Christian life. The Amazonian aspect of the local Church must be consolidated, … so must its indigenous aspect within indigenous communities. … In the synodal consultation stages, the indigenous people made manifest in various ways that they want the Church’s support … It is necessary that the right to be the leading players in their own history be returned and guaranteed to indigenous populations …Their cultures, languages, history, identity, and spirituality are humanity’s wealth and must be respected and preserved as well as included in global culture.

“The Church’s mission today in Amazonia is the Synod’s central issue. This is a Synod of the Church for the Church … A Church open to dialogue, especially interreligious and intercultural dialogue. A Church that is welcoming and wanting to share a synodal path with other churches, religions, sciences, governments, institutions, peoples, communities and persons … An updated Church, “semper reformanda”, according to the Evangelii Gaudium … Inculturation of the Christian Faith in the various different cultures is necessary … Together with inculturation, the evangelization of the peoples of the Amazon also requires paying particular attention to interculturality, because it is there that cultures are many and diversified …The task of inculturation and interculturality lies above all in the liturgy, in interreligious and ecumenical dialogue, in popular piety, in catechesis..

“Another issue consists in the lack of priests at the service of local communities in the area, with a consequent lack of the Eucharist, at least on Sundays, as well as other sacraments. There is a lack of appointed priests and this means pastoral care consisting of occasional instead of adequate daily pastoral care. The Church lives on the Eucharist and the Eucharist is the foundation of the Church (St. John Paul II). Participation in the celebration of the Eucharist, at least on Sundays, is essential for the full and progressive development of Christian communities and a true experience of the Word of God in people’s lives. It will be necessary to define new paths for the future. During the consultation stages, indigenous communities, faced with the urgent need experienced by most of the Catholic communities in Amazonia, requested that the path be opened for the ordination of married men resident in their communities, albeit confirming the great importance of the charisma of celibacy in the Church. At the same time, faced with a great number of women who nowadays lead communities in Amazonia, there is a request that this service be acknowledged and there be an attempt to consolidate it with a suitable ministry for them.

“In conclusion, to comply with the working dynamics of this synodal assembly, I wish to suggest a number of core issues: (a) The outgoing Church and its new pathways in Amazonia; (b) The Church’s Amazonian face: inculturation and interculturality in a missionary-ecclesial context; (c) Ministries in the Church in Amazonia: presbyterate, diaconate, ministries, and the role played by women; (d) The work done by the Church in looking after our “shared home”; listening to the earth and to the poor; integral environmental, economic, social and cultural ecology; (e) The Amazonian Church in the urban reality; (f) The issues concerning water; (g) others.”

Later, at the Vatican press briefing, which followed the morning session, SISTER ALBA TERESA CEDIEL CASTILLO, M.M.L., of Colombia, a member of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Immaculate of Saint Catherine of Siena, spoke of the “high expectations” and “infinite hope” that the synod is “ready to listen to the voices of indigenous peoples, campesinos,” including women who will “make their voices heard.” In response to a question about whether she is satisfied with the way women have been part of the synod process and whether it is enough, Sister Castillo responded that the synod’s preparatory process has been “incredible.” She said there is a “great and fertile” presence of women in the Amazon forests and, since there are few priests, women baptize children and preside at marriages. She added: “Sometimes we also have to listen to confessions. Of course, we cannot give absolution, but we place ourselves in a position of humbleness, listen to the person and give a word of comfort, perhaps before death.” The role of women in the church “has to become greater … We will get there, little by little. We cannot exert too much pressure, but through dialogue and meetings, we will be able to respond to the many challenges.”

According to the official VATICAN NEWS SUMMARY of the afternoon plenary session, synod participants discussed the need for inculturated celebrations of some sacraments, and a proposal was put forward “to think of establishing—ad experimentum and according to the right theological, liturgical and pastoral discernment—an Amazonian Catholic rite to live and celebrate faith in Christ.”

COMMENT: You cannot get a clearer message than that as regards the need for change, the demand for change, and the inevitability of change. The Church is going to change. They will start by introducing “emergency”, “extraordinary”, “necessary localized changes”―that will inevitably be soon applied in some other “emergency”, “extraordinary”, “necessary” area of the world, and then in another, and another―until the “extraordinary” becomes the “ordinary”. This is what happened with “Communion in the Hand” and many other similar things. That is how same-sex marriages were introduced in the USA―first one state allows it, then another, and another, etc.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 3 ― Tuesday, October 8th

The third day of the Synod, Tuesday October 8th, was the second workday of the Synod―since Sunday was merely the opening day of the Amazon Synod without there being any working meetings. The chief topics of discussion were indifference and responsibility with regard to the Amazon problem; the role to be played by the entire international community; human rights violations; stressing a greater awareness of ecological sins; promoting a permanent indigenous diaconate; the various vocational problems; holiness and young people.

The Synod of Bishops on the Amazon lost no time in unwrapping the “time-bombs” of ordaining married men to the priesthood and the introduction of women to the ranks of the clergy―not as priests (not yet)―but as deacons or deaconesses. The Bishops have almost unanimously agreed that there is a regional priest shortage in the Amazon and that there needs to be a clear ministerial role for women. Though the problems seem to be clear, the answers are far from clear. Speaking to journalists during an October 8th press briefing, at the close of Tuesday’s morning session, Paolo Ruffini―a 63-year-old lay journalist who Francis appointed as Prefect of the Vatican’s communications department―stated that both the ordained ministry and the need to find “new paths” for women’s ministry in regional communities has been “underlined a lot” in the speeches thus far. Regarding these two “hot topics”, Ruffini said that “everyone says there is a question and a need to find an answer― but the answers aren’t the same.” Ruffini stressed the need for a greater formation of laypeople, since priests are few and cannot provide answers or help to everyone.

Running from October 6th to 27th, the Synod is divided into morning and afternoon sessions. For the first two days, participants are giving 4-minute speeches. Later in the week they will divide into small groups for actual discussion of key topics in the gathering’s working text. According to Ruffini, the roughly 40 prelates who have been given a chance to speak and voice their views to the Synod, have focused on a few core issues, including environmental degradation due to predatory mining practices and a chronic priest shortage in a region, where some rural indigenous communities see a priest once a year or less. Many synod participants stressed the need to move from a “pastoral visit” to a “pastoral presence,” meaning that they would like to see more priests

On the matter of priestly celibacy, which has been mandatory for the Roman Catholic Church since the 11th century, some Synod participants nevertheless suggested the long-debated possibility of ordaining viri probati, or mature married men, to help curb the regional shortage of priests―this, they argue, would be experimental with an ongoing evaluation taking place to measure its effectiveness. However, others, Ruffini said, argued against the proposal, saying it would turn priests into “a simple functionary” for Masses, “and not a pastor of the community.”

Ruffini then revealed some points that were discussed on the need to establish a formal ministry for women in the Amazon―for it seems that it is women who often play a leading role, not only in their indigenous communities, but also the liturgy. When it came to this issue, the Synod participants were also in agreement on the need of a female ministry, but were not in agreement on how to solve it. Some suggested that the problem could be solved by creating a women’s diaconate―while others resisted the idea. This echoed the results of the 2016 Commission, established by Pope Francis, to study the women’s diaconate. That commission later produced a report―but without reaching any consensus or agreement on whether to proceed or how to proceed. In May of 2019, Francis said the commission would continue to study the topic―since members had such drastically diverging opinions.

During Monday’s opening session, Brazilian Cardinal Claudio Hummes, appointed by Francis to serve as the relator, or chairman, of the Synod, drew thunderous applause from participants when he brought up the need to find a “suitable ministry” for the women who lead these communities. Lacking a clear solution in the speeches given thus far, Ruffini stressed that “It’s a developing process,” and voiced his belief that clearer solutions will begin to take shape when small group deliberations begin October 9th.

Cardinal Pedro Barreto Jimeno of Huancayo, Peru, one of three president-delegates to the synod and the vice-president of the Pan-Amazonian Ecclesial Network (REPAM), which is playing a leading role in organizing the synod, insisted that they are just making suggestions, and the discussion is nothing to fear, adding: “We shouldn’t be afraid of different opinions, this has always happened … Saints Peter and Paul had different opinions about circumcision, which often led to lively debates between the two. What is important is spirituality―the synod is not a parliament … We will make proposals” after which it is the Pope who will make the ultimate decision.

Both a ministerial role for women and ordination of the viri probati (married men of proven virtue) were among the most contentious issues in the lead-up to the Synod, with critics charging that it would open the door to eliminating priestly celibacy altogether.

Other topics raised were the presence of young people in the Amazon; destructive forms of mining; migration out of the Amazon due to hazardous environmental projects; the “martyrs” who have given their lives serving and defending the Amazon territory; and the need for the Church to carve out new paths of evangelization that are both respectful of the indigenous culture and healing of past grievances.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 4 ― Wednesday, October 9th

The fourth day of the Synod, Wednesday October 8th, was the third workday of the Synod―since Sunday was merely the opening day of the Amazon Synod without there being any working meetings. The chief topics of discussion were inculturation and evangelization; blending the Faith with the local culture; the possibility of married male priests; the role of women in the Church; the acceptance of popular piety; the Theology of Creation; Interreligious and Ecumenical dialogue; etc.

The tragedy of drug trafficking and its consequences was one of the topics discussed on Wednesday afternoon in the Synod Hall. In some areas of the Amazon region, the cultivation of coca has increased from 12 thousand to 23 thousand hectares. This has had a devastating effect on the rise in crime and on the upheaval of the natural equilibrium of a territory facing increased desertification. If you are thinking “coca” is a typo when it should be “cocoa” or “cacao”―then you are mistaken. Chocolate is made from the seeds of cacao tree fruit, whereas cocaine is extracted from coca tree leaves. While the names are similar they are two distinctly different plants.

At the same time, millions of hectares of land are being destroyed by authorized fires and the construction of hydroelectric dams. This has had a very strong impact on the environment of some regions, altering ecosystems.

For this reason, a call to ecological conversion is necessary. It was said in the Synod Hall that the Church must speak with a prophetic voice in order for the issue of integral ecology to enter the agenda of international bodies.

Wednesday afternoon marked the first time the Synod of Bishops on the Amazon broke into small working groups organized by language called the circoli minors (small circles or small discussion groups), where the initial order of business was to elect two leaders: a moderator to run the discussion, and a relator to report it to the full synod.

There are twelve such small groups this time, two in Italian, four in Portuguese, five in Spanish, and one in French. (This is the very first Synod of Bishops I’ve covered in over twenty years, by the way, in which there’s no working group at all in English).

One interesting point about the balloting, results of which were released Thursday, is that in 11 of the 12 working groups, either the relator or moderator, or both, come from a religious order. In all, seven moderators and eight relators are religious, with the only group in which one or the other isn’t someone from religious life is the first Spanish group led by Cardinal Carlos Aguiar Retes of Mexico City and Archbishop Archbishop José Luis Azuaje Ayala of Maracaibo, Venezuela.

Four of the 24 positions are held by members of the pope’s own Jesuit order, including Spanish Cardinal Luis Ladaria, head of the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith; Father Roberto Jaramillo Bernal, head of the Latin American Jesuit Conference; Father Alfredo Ferro Medina, co-head of the Jesuit Pan-Amazonian Service; and Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich of Luxembourg, the newly elected president of the European bishops’ conference.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 5 ― Thursday, October 10th

The Prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for Communication, Dr. Paolo Ruffini, opened the press briefing by summarizing the main points covered during the Wednesday afternoon's session of the Synod for the Amazon. The first series of interventions by the Synod Fathers concluded on Wednesday evening, he said. Among these interventions was one by Pope Francis himself.

► Summary by Dr. Paolo Ruffini
The issues discussed during the morning session were all interconnected in some way, added Dr. Ruffini. They concerned ecological questions, the future of the planet, the value the Amazon Region represents for the entire planet, the violence committed toward the Amazon as an area, and toward the people who live there, the need to change the paradigm, to respect human rights, and to combat all forms of violence. These issues themselves are connected with culture, dialogue among cultures, evangelization and the inculturation of the Gospel.

Other questions regarded how to “be Church in the Amazon”, and how people living there see the Church. Observations confirmed the lack of vocations in the Amazon region, the need for new forms of ministry, both ordained and non-ordained, the role of women, and the importance of the sacraments in the community. Emphasis was placed on the need to give suitable formation and responsibility to lay people, and to let go of a “clerical vision” in the Church.

► Comments by Fr. Giacomo Costa SJ
Jesuit Fr. Giacomo Costa is Secretary of the Information Commission for the Synod. He developed the connectivity among the themes discussed at the morning session. While examining the Amazon Region, he said, the Synod is also connecting it on the universal level, because the impact of what is happening there affects the entire Church throughout the world.

Fr. Costa used the term “missionary synodality” to explain the way the Church can contribute in a specific region. He spoke of a “new way of being Church” that values the contribution of everyone: laity, indigenous, etc.

The Synod has moved on to the next step, he said, describing the so-called “circoli minores”, or small language groups, that began their work on Thursday morning. These groups allow for greater sharing, comparing and exchange of ideas among their members. All these are connected with the interventions in the Synod Hall, he said, and are the result of a period of profound listening, aimed at discerning the new paths of evangelization. These small groups will continue their work on Thursday afternoon and on Friday. The General Congregation will pick up again from Saturday to Tuesday. The relations of the groups will be presented in a week’s time, on the evening of Thursday 17 October and will be published.

► Presentation by Bishop Wilmar Santin, O.CARM., of Itaituba, Brazil
Bishop Wilmar Santin spoke of his personal experience ministering in an area that covers 175 thousand square km. His prelature was established in 1988, he said, but the Church’s work with the indigenous peoples dates back to 1910 or 1911. It was the Franciscans who began working there. They were followed by the Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, the same Congregation as Sister Dulce Lopes Pontes who will be canonized this Sunday.

Bishop Wilmar told the story of how the indigenous people did not want to approach the missionaries at first, until a Franciscan missionary won them over by playing his flute. Most of the people in the area where Bishop Santin ministers are baptized in the Catholic Church, he said. A Baptist mission headed by a Swiss couple is also there. The relationship between the Catholic missionaries and pastors of the Baptist Church has always been good, he added. They have been collaborating under a banner of dialogue since 1963.

The Bishop’s said his experience and intention has been to intensify the indigenous pastoral ministry. He spoke of how the local Church is putting into practice “what the Pope is calling us to do”: namely, that it should be the indigenous peoples themselves who shape the Church in the Amazon. An important aspect, said Bishop Wilmar, is that the people he works with should have their own leaders. Until now, these have always been foreigners. Pope Francis, said the Bishop, told someone how he dreamed of seeing an indigenous priest in every village. When Bishop Wilmar asked how to fulfill that dream, the Pope said he should start with what the Church already allows: the permanent diaconate. Which is what they decided to do. They developed a plan with an Italian priest who had worked in the indigenous missions in Amazonia all his life. The first step involved creating Ministers of the Eucharist, then ministries that Deacons perform in order to move toward being ordained as Deacons. They chose to begin with the Ministry of the Word, as the Eucharist cannot be preserved in these territories for very long. Formation for Ministers of the Word began in November 2017. 20 men and 4 women were appointed and began preaching the word of God in their own language.

This past March, Bishop Santin said he returned to that village and found another 24 Ministers of the Word, making a total of 48, who preach in their local language. The Bishop said it filled him with joy as he thought of the day of Pentecost when so many heard about the wonders of God, in their own language. This type of formation is advancing toward forming Ministers to baptize, and later to witness marriages, he said. The local people give great importance to the Sacrament of Baptism, he added, and they want to be married in Church. They desire God’s blessings. Which is why there have to be ministers to perform baptisms and marriages in every village. This will help the people very much, concluded Bishop Santin and in the future, hopefully, the ordination of deacons will be possible.

► Presentation by Bishop Medardo de Jesús Henao Del Río, M.X.Y., Apostolic Vicar of Mitú, and Titular Bishop of Casae Medianae, in Colombia
Bishop Del Rio represents an area of the Amazon where 90% of the population are indigenous people. The nearest city is one hour away by plane. He described the situation there as particularly difficult. The drug trade, he said, is exploiting indigenous people in the area. While there is a school and a paramedic station, there is widespread malnutrition and many live abandoned. The Bishop told the story of a woman who was experiencing a difficult pregnancy. She had nowhere to go and had to perform a C-section on herself. Her husband managed to get her to the hospital where the gynecologist was shocked this could have happened. In this case, the woman and her child survived. In other cases, men have had to help their wives deliver babies using knives, and women sometimes die as a result. The Health Ministry has been asked to focus more on health care but a court proceeding has been going ahead with no results.

The Church has been intervening in these areas, said Bishop Del Rio. He quoted Pope Francis saying that the Amazon has never been so threatened, not only because the State is absent, but because so many companies come to exploit it. It is not just a matter of planting trees or collecting rubbish, said the Bishop, “we need an integral ecology”. Land is very important for the indigenous peoples, he continued, because that is where their family is buried. Sometimes entire communities disappear, said the Bishop, because of the multi-nationals that force them to leave their lands. Some deceive the people by obtaining legal permission, or getting signatures from leaders through devious means, including using alcohol. The Church is trying to support these people by exposing the exploitation of the multi-nationals, continued Bishop Del Rio. Sometimes they sign things without being fully aware of what they are signing. These are sacred lands for them. Contaminated water causes problems, he added, because it is their drinking water.

Bishop Del Rio recently ordained an indigenous deacon, using some symbols from both the Latin rite, and some used in similar ceremonies in the indigenous culture. We need to take on some of the symbols and values of the indigenous people, said the Bishop, because this is what provides meaning for them. The local people have a tradition of giving what they have in abundance, and offering it to others with dancing. We incorporate this into the Offertory, he said. In this way, we connect both the culture and the Christian experience. We use elements, situations and celebrations that have the seed of God in them, concluded the Bishop.

► Sister Gloria Liliana Franco Echeverri, O.D.N., President of the Latin American and Caribbean Confederation of Religious (C.L.A.R.), from Colombia
Sister Echeverri shared her experience of how, at the end of August this year, a group of men and women religious from the 9 countries of Amazon got together, some of them travelling for 5 to 6 days. They call themselves itinerant men and women religious, and they accompany the people of the Amazon day by day in order to show them the face of Jesus. They offer them a word that can transform and help them to live with more dignity. C.L.A.R. comprises both men and women religious and comprises 22 countries. Sister Echeverri described their challenges as being called to live their proper vocation and to communicate and share the gift they have received with compassion and joy. She spoke of the importance of walking with the Church, one that is more synodal and more participative, listening and discerning.

Sister Echeverri spoke of feeling the need to renew the option for the poor and the excluded. They confront many complex realities, she said: poverty, corruption, migration. They also feel the need to foster the culture of encounter, to foster prophecy in the Church. The most effective way to do this, she said, is through fraternity. Sister Echeverri also urged opting for an integral ecology, recognizing the dignity of people, and that of all cultures. She spoke of the importance of caring for all the goods of Creation, encouraging alternative styles of life that are less consumeristic and more able to care for Creation.

► A question about the impact of Evangelical Churches
In response to a question regarding the impact of Pentecostal churches in the Amazon, Bishop Santin cited indigenous people as confirming how some pastors have been very aggressive towards local cultures. Indigenous people are forbidden even to speak their own language or to paint their bodies. There is separation taking place between the Catholic community and some evangelical communities. The Gospel, he said, sometimes causes separation, not with everyone, only some.

As the Synod has been saying, we are trying to find new paths because this is a new reality. The challenges are different compared with those of 10 years ago. The Bishop gave the example of when he visited Agua Branca where gold is mined. There he met a woman, a nurse, who takes care of the Catholic community. She greeted everyone she met and asked some of them to meet the Bishop. She addressed them by name. One of them was an Evangelical, who told the Bishop he had two brother priests and a sister who is a nun. When the Bishop asked why he had converted from Catholicism to being an Evangelical, he replied that when he arrived here there was no Catholic Church. He wanted to hear the Word of God so he went to the Evangelical Church, which is where he stayed. We cannot get to all the places where the people are, said the Bishop. We need to change the Church’s structure so that the Church can move more quickly and that not everything depends on the priest, to the point where the Church cannot carry out her mission. We are slow, he added, and we cannot preach everywhere as we ought to. Which is why, sometimes, Catholics have to quench their thirst for the Word of God in another Christian Church. We need to make sure that we can carry out our mission in a much more effective way, he concluded.

► A question about women deacons
Journalists present in the Holy See Press Office were reminded there are nearly 40 women at the Synod. Many more participated in the pre-Synodal consultations. The Church has a feminine face, said Sister Echeverri, she is Mother. There is a path for us to pursue as women, she added. We are not protagonists because many others have gone before us, like Saint Clare. She went on to mention the indigenous women of the Amazon, mothers and grandmothers. The Church discerns, she added. We do not know if this is the moment, but many people are seeking the “feminine face of the Church”, not one of power, but of service. This is a moment of grace, “Kairos”. This is part of the discernment toward new paths, she concluded.

► A question about drug trafficking
Bishop Del Rio responded to a question regarding how the drug trade affects the indigenous people, by describing the situation in Colombia, where he is Apostolic Vicar of Mitù. Despite the peace process, it is a violent area where guerilla fighters hide and where illegal crops are grown, he said. Once he saw four or five planes taking off, all of them filled with drugs. Young people try to become members of those groups because of the easy money they promise. One community started changing their way of life, said the Bishop, by updating their forms of food. Many indigenous peoples have left to find a “better” life and never return, said Bishop Del Rio.

► A question about infanticide and violence against women
The example was given of the Mundurukus, a warlike people who used to cut off the heads of their enemy to use as a trophy. Prior to the arrival of missionaries, infanticide was practiced in cases where children were deformed. It was confirmed, however, that the dedication of women religious, working as nurses and teachers, has slowly made this practices disappear. But he concluded asking why people in the West should be scandalized when abortion in western hospitals is so widespread.

Sister Echeverri responded to the question about violence against women, saying “the Synod speaks to everyone”. What happens in the Amazon happens everywhere, she said, including violence against women. She mentioned human trafficking, in particular, saying it is connected to migration and sexual exploitation. Sister Echeverri also spoke of women being denied the right or possibility to study. She mentioned how women religious who have served the indigenous peoples have been murdered. These martyrs have made the Amazonian land fruitful, she added.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 6 ― Friday, October 11th

A commentary is currently being written on the day's events and will be posted when completed. Meanwhile, here is the the official Vatican News briefing on the event of Friday, October 11th, reads as follows. The worrisome or even dangerous points have been first of all highlighted in red. A commentary and critique of those points will follow shortly.

There were four Synod participants on the podium in the Holy See Press Office on Friday afternoon, each of them sharing their impressions of the discussions so far, and responding to journalist’s questions.

► Cardinal Carlos Aguiar Retes, Archbishop of México (Mexico)
Cardinal Carlos Aguiar Retes opened his presentation with a call for “ecological conversion”. Climate change has amplified the “cry of the poor”, he said, and an “integral ecology” is the Church’s response. The Cardinal explained that an integral ecology means a change of lifestyle, abandoning the throwaway culture. It is essential we increase awareness, he said, because it is the poorest people on earth who are being affected.

► Archbishop Pedro Brito Guimarâes, of Palmas (Brazil)
Archbishop Pedro Brito Guimarâes, of Palmas, said he comes from Brazil’s youngest State, in the heart of the country. 1.5 million people live there, along with 9 million heads of cattle. The cattle, said the Archbishop, often enjoy better healthcare than the people. That’s because their meat is exported to countries overseas. The primary animal feed in the region is soybean meal, but overplanting has had a negative impact on the earth, said Archbishop Pedro. The land is eroded, while pesticides and chemicals used to grow the soy have polluted the rivers. Cattle raising also requires a lot of water, and this too risks destroying natural resources.

Archbishop Pedro went on to speak of what he called “ecological sins”. They may be something new, he said, but we need to start confessing them. Quoting Pope Francis, he added how “everything is connected”, when you touch something you create a chain reaction, he said. The whole of humanity will feel the effects of decisions taken at this Synod, concluded the Archbishop.

► Bishop Joaquín Pertíñez Fernández O.A.R. of Rio Branco (Brazil)
Bishop Joaquín Pertíñez Fernández began by emphasizing he comes from an area that crosses two time zones. The Bishop went on to speak about the history of his Amazon Region, which is not well known, he said. This is partly because the local culture is based on wood, rather than stone, so things disintegrate more easily. He spoke of coming of a land of martyrs where someone is “buried under every tree”. Bishop Fernàndez described how the people of this area were enslaved. Forced to sell their produce to their employers, they were trapped in a situation from which they rarely escaped alive, he said.

The Church was not present in this “place of human suffering”, explained the Bishop, because of the distances and lack of communication. It could take a month for the bishop to reach this area by canoe. And it will take a long time for the people of this territory to recover from all their “sad and cruel history of violence”, said Bishop Fernández. It will take several generations before they feel free to think for themselves and to make decisions, he said.

► Sister Birgit Weiler, Congregation of Medical Missionary Sisters
Sister Birgit Weiler began her presentation by confirming that the Church wants to walk together with the people of the Amazon Region in order to confront this dramatic situation. Quoting the Instrumentum Laboris, she said the Church needs to speak with a “prophetic voice” in order to address the health of the entire planet. We need to welcome the culture of the indigenous people, said Sister Weiler, and their vision of “buen vivir”, which means to live more in common among ourselves and in solidarity with the Earth itself.

When we maltreat the earth, we are maltreating ourselves too, she added. Sister Weiler called for the introduction of an integral ecology at all levels of the Church, and suggested reducing the use of plastic to zero. She also spoke in favour of advocating for indigenous peoples, especially when their rights are violated.

► A question about multinational corporations
Sister Birgit Weiler also responded to the first question regarding multinationals not complying with the law. She affirmed how we all live in a common home and fighting for the rights of others is important. Then she gave the example of how Germany has passed a law according to which companies that cause environmental damage are held accountable even when they commit that damage in other countries.

Sister Weiler spoke of a network of collaboration among conferences of men and women religious, especially in Peru, where she works. Shareholders from multinational companies need to be made aware of the situation through lobbying, she added, to ensure companies respect local peoples’ rights. Often, the lives of Europeans and Americans are considered more valuable than those of people living in these territories – despite us all living together in one common home.

► A question about isolated indigenous communities
Archbishop Pedro Brito Guimarâes chose to respond to the issue of isolated indigenous communities. Some of them choose to remain isolated, he explained. Others are forced to escape because their territory his being invaded. They go deeper and deeper into the forest, continued the Archbishop, and have no contact with other people. This leaves them open to diseases. Some die from a common cold. Sometimes it is impossible to reach them, he said. Not having any contact with these isolated peoples, we do not know how they think, or what they want. The Synod is discussing this theme, said Archbishop Guimarâes. It is important for the Church to protect their right to live in their own way, he added.

► A question about evangelical churches
Cardinal Carlos Aguiar Retes began answering the question regarding the presence of evangelical churches in the Amazon Region, by affirming that people “want the Word of God, first and foremost”. He cited studies that show people migrating from one Church to another, but said it will take time to analyze this phenomenon properly. Sometimes it is simply because people hope to solve a series of difficulties and look for responses in different areas, he said.

Archbishop Pedro Brito Guimarâes added his reflection, saying it is impossible for priests to be everywhere, given the vast distances. If someone comes proclaiming the Word of God, people will follow them, he said.

Bishop Joaquín Pertíñez Fernández agreed that the Synod needs to analyze this situation but that we cannot solve all health, educational, or financial problems.

Sister Birgit Weiler quoted the Synod working document as saying the Church needs to move from a pastoral ministry of visit to a ministry of presence. Being with these peoples is extremely important, she said. We need to explore all the ministries, not just ordained ministries, said Sister Weiler, because “everything is connected” regarding this challenge.

► A question about women’s participation at the Synod
Sister Birgit Weiler went on to answer the following question about the atmosphere in the small working groups and the recognition of women’s ministry. She began by affirming “there is not a clerical attitude” in the working groups, and how “freedom of speech” has favoured an atmosphere where “critical questions can be put on the table respectfully and openly”. She described it as a beautiful experience of “discerning together”.

A good number of Bishops and Cardinals share the concerns the women have, and understand there are things that pain them and why, continued Sister Weiler. She confirmed there is recognition of women, but added that becoming a fully synodal Church means walking together, deciding together, having women in positions of leadership. All women, lay and religious, ought to be able to assume positions of responsibility, she said.

Sister Weiler recalled how the Synod working document confirms that women perform most of the pastoral work in the Amazon Region. Many women are working with indigenous peoples and want to be involved with indigenous theology, she said. She described this as “a sign of our time” that women are involved at this level. She also mentioned working to overcome violence against women, standing up for justice, and overcoming a “machismo” culture.

“Creation is a gift of love from God the Creator”, she said, and this is the meeting point with women of other religions. Many women are working to build bridges where differences often cause separation. This is not a power struggle, explained Sister Weiler, it is This is not a power struggle, but a sharing of our “gifts of baptism, our vocation and insights, talents and charisms”.

Responding to a follow-up question concerning women voting on the Synod final document, Sister Weiler noted how there are 35 women present in various capacities in the Synod, and this is a significant step forward. Like many other religious women, she said, they would like to reach the point where their Superiors General would be able to vote just as Men Superiors General can. There is no real reason why they shouldn’t, she said.

► A question about ecological sins
Archbishop Pedro Brito Guimarâes picked up on his earlier comment about “ecological sins”. He confirmed he is an optimist and is convinced that “a different world is possible”. However, unless we take care of nature, “we compromise the preconditions for our lives”, he said. While we profess in the Creed that we believe in God, “the Creator of Heaven and Earth”, we continue to sin against nature “without ever questioning ourselves”.

We need to start thinking about a simpler, more essential, life-style, suggested the Archbishop. We need to question ourselves, from a religious, social, economic perspective, he added. “We are not owners of Nature”, said Archbishop Guimarâes, only her guardians.

We have no other planet where we can live, he concluded. So we had better take care of this one.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 7 ― Saturday, October 12th, 5:00 p.m.
Here is the official Vatican News Agency Briefing Bulletin on the Amazon Synod, issued on Saturday evening to the Press. The worrisome or even dangerous points have been first of all highlighted in red. A commentary and critique of those points will follow shortly.

► Amazon Synod Briefing: Forming a Church with an indigenous face
On Day 6 of the Synod for the Amazon, journalists and Synod participants gather in the Holy See Press Office to share impressions and answer questions concerning the main themes under discussion.
By Vatican News

The Saturday afternoon briefing concluded the first week of discussions on the Synod for the Amazon, and saw the participation of four speakers on the podium: two bishops, a woman religious, and a deacon.

► Summary by Dr. Paolo Ruffini
The Prefect of the Dicastery for Communications, Dr. Paolo Ruffini, began by providing a summary of the themes discussed during the morning interventions. These included interreligious, ecumenical and intercultural dialogue, respect for cultures, and the rights of indigenous people to live their own lifestyle.

The Prefect cited words that had been recalled in one of the morning's interventions: those of Pope John Paul II when he visited Manaus in 1991, regarding how the Church is always on the side of dignity and the right to life.

The role of women was another issue introduced several times in the Synod Hall on Saturday morning. The theme of religious life―especially that of women religious as leaders of Christian communities―was underlined. Here the Prefect referred to a quote of Pope Paul VI used in one of the interventions calling for women to have an influence on the life of the Church: something they are already doing in the Amazon Region, Dr. Ruffini said.

► Comments by Fr. Giacomo Costa SJ
The Secretary of the Information Commission, Jesuit Fr. Giacomo Costa, continued by explaining how participants returned to the Synod Hall on Saturday morning after their work in the “circoli minores”. He spoke of a convergence of paths towards an integral conversion, beginning with the Gospel. He used the term “Samaritan Church” to describe a prophetic Church, in communion, and based on solidarity.

Other strong themes that emerged, said Fr. Costa, were the importance of listening to the cries provoked by violence, being attentive to the dignity of workers, and to the question of youth unemployment. There are new forms of slavery that must be confronted, he added: forced employment, prostitution, and organ trafficking “must be addressed in a prophetic way”, he said.

Another theme was that of “integral education” capable of changing reality and helping us care for our common home. In order to have a Church “that can listen, and be listened to”, said Fr. Costa, we need to train people to promote co-citizenship based on compassion, to contribute to the “buen vivir”, or well-being of all.

► Sister Zully Riosa Rojas Quispe, M.D.R. (Peru)
Sister Zully Riosa Rojas Quispe, M.D.R., is a Dominican Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary and works with indigenous peoples in Peru. She spoke of the need for humility and “listening”, a word that is repeated over 60 times in the Synod Instrumentum laboris, she said.

Sister Zully stressed how we all need to listen to the voice of God, the poor, creation, and the earth, that is coming to us from the Amazon. We must also be ready to acknowledge both our successes and our failures, she said.

► Bishop Rafael Cob Garcia, Apostolic Vicar of Puyo (Ecuador)
According to Bishop Rafael Cob Garcia of Ecuador, the greatest challenge lies in the formation of priests and pastoral ministries. He recognized there are different needs, but he identified a common key to evangelization in the Amazon as being that understanding the local reality. The keyword, he said, is “inculturation”: in order to build a Church with an Amazonian and indigenous face, the Church must train local priests.

► Deacon Francisco Andrade de Lima (Manaus)
Deacon Francisco Andrade de Lima comes from Manaus and was brought up “on the banks of the river”, he said, in a place where there were no schools or infrastructures. Like other young people of the region, he moved to the city where he met men and women missionaries from Europe who helped him discover his “path of Faith”. He spoke of the diaconate as a vocation and of the need to reflect on how the Church can be even more present in local communities.

► Bishop Adriano Ciocca Vasino of São Félix do Araguaia (Brazil)
Bishop Adriano Ciocca Vasino is Italian, but has spent seven years in the southern part of the Amazon. He described this area as the “new agricultural frontier”, where cattle breeding is having a marked impact on the environment. He spoke of his own experience of providing formation for missionary leaders, education and training for priests to be missionary pastors. The traditional seminary is not sufficient, he said: the local Church needs priests who come out of the communities. We need a theology that speaks to people of the presence of God and shows that presence, said Bishop Vasino.

► A question about vocations
Bishop Rafael Cob Garcia chose to answer the first question regarding obstacles to vocations in the Amazon Region. The Bishop acknowledged that there are very few vocations. He offered one reason as being an imbalance between the academic quality of studies locally, as opposed to seminaries in the cities. Seminarians “get discouraged and leave”, he said.

Another reason, he suggested, is a “difficulty understanding disciplinary norms of Catholic Church, including celibacy”. This has an impact on many indigenous candidates, he added. Conditions in the Amazon are different, said Bishop Rafael Cob Garcia, which is why the Church needs to look at “new pathways”.

► A question about syncretism
Bishop Adriano Ciocca Vasino chose to answer a question on how the Church discerns between authentic inculturation of the Gospel and syncretism, or the merging of beliefs. He stressed, first of all, the need to view things from the perspective of indigenous culture and, “after dialogue”, to see what coincides with the Gospel. We need to enter more deeply into their mentality, he said, understanding and respecting their culture, “the soul of their spirituality”.

► A question about formation
Bishop Rafael Cob Garcia affirmed that the Church “can be served in different ways”, and that we need to consider this in terms of formation. Service, he said, is the “primary dimension”. The priest is there to serve the people, he said, but lay people too are “protagonists of evangelization”. Bishop Garcia suggested taking steps to encourage Church that is less clerical and more ministerial.

Deacon Francisco Andrade de Lima said that, during the process of listening that preceded this Synod, he came to realize that “the face of Amazon Church is also a female face”. Women ensure the Faith remains alive in communities that receive ordained ministers once or twice a year, he said.

► A question about protecting the Amazon
Answering a question about who has the responsibility to protect the Amazon, Bishop Adriano Ciocca Vasino affirmed that the sovereignty of the countries of the Amazon region is not in question. We do live in a globalized world, he added, which means we need to “go beyond populism” which is neither good for the Amazon, nor for the health of our planet.

► A question about a Church with an Amazonian face
Bishop Adriano Ciocca Vasino responded to a journalist who wanted to know what changes should be made in order to form a Church with a more Amazonian face. The Bishop said he “dreams” of creating an Amazonian seminary in which to form people, “starting from their own realities”. This means providing local formation with local formators who understand the reality and know the language, he said. The Church needs to pass from being one that visits areas, to one that it there permanently, he said. People want to be “supported and accompanied”, said Bishop Vasino, which means creating a presence, sharing their everyday lives, being involved, understanding their “signs and symbols”, what they feel and what they do. By way of solution, the Bishop suggested a specific formation for Amazonian priests that is more practical than academic.

Sister Zully Riosa Rojas Quispe added the need to integrate elements of “ancestral wisdom” into traditional philosophy and theology studies.

Answering a follow-up question on the same topic, Bishop Adriano Ciocca Vasino identified two different models of formation and leadership: the traditional model of people coming forward, and that of selecting people who are already leaders in their communities, and providing them with further formation. The Bishop spoke of his own experience trying to discover how best to form priests destined to be missionaries in the Amazon. Theology in his school is open to both men and women, he said, but it begins with the local reality. After initial years of study, candidates are sent to work within an indigenous community for four years. If that community agrees they are suitable, they are ordained. The Bishop said there are women too who are training to become theologians. Should the Pope allow it, and if the local community requests it, he would ordain them deacons, said Bishop Vasino.

► A question about a Synod on role of women in the Church
Dr. Ruffini responded to a question regarding the possibility of a future Synod on the role of women in the Church. He explained the synodal procedure: how convergent themes are brought forward from the small group discussions and General Congregations, toward formulating a final document. Individual paragraphs of the Instrumentum Laboris are not being discussed as in the past, he explained. The discussion and sharing on the text is more in general and less structured. The dynamic in the groups is to put forward concerns or reflections. The moderator then selects which themes will be examined in the various sessions.

► A question about evangelization
Another journalist asked why it was important to evangelize indigenous communities who already have their own beliefs. Bishop Rafael Cob Garcia responded acknowledging that indigenous communities do have their own spirituality, but that what Jesus came to proclaim is for the entire world, not just for certain peoples: “That they might have life and have it to the full”. But, when multinationals don’t respect their right, the Church also supports and protects these communities from the greed of others. Their land is not like “a cupboard you go to when you need something”, he said.

► A question about ecological sins
Bishop Adriano Ciocca Vasino picked up on the term “ecological sins” used by Archbishop Pedro Brito Guimarâes of Palmas at Friday’s briefing. The Synod is an opportunity “to broaden the concept of Christian ethics”, he said, introducing sins against nature and the environment, developing an environmental anthropology according to which “everything is connected”. The Bishop said he hoped this could lead to a “change of mentality”. An incorporation of theology and ecology, he concluded, may also lead to changes in the Code of Canon Law.

Later in the day, another bulletin was issued: That faith in the Spirit be stronger than the fear of erring
The following bulletin was issued on October 12th, 2019, at 9:00 pm.

The first week of the three-week Special Synod for the Pan-Amazon region concluded on Saturday evening, 12 October. Along with the Pope, there were 166 Synod Fathers in the hall, along with others participating in the Synod.
Vatican News – Vatican City

One of the themes put forward in the eighth General Congregation of the Special Synod for the Pan-Amazon region on Saturday afternoon was the centrality of Christ in the Church’s mission. “How many know the Gospel?”, one of the Synod participants asked. In addition, it was affirmed that the Good News must be announced not only in the Amazon, but in the entire world. Since evangelization is never undertaken alone, the creation of a team was proposed. The hope is that this team would be able to both respond adequately to the multiple pastoral challenges facing the region and witness to the joy of evangelization.

► A Reflection on celibacy and the priesthood
Once again, the proposal for viri probati returned in more than one intervention. Some contributions highlighted that the lack of vocations is not particular to the Amazon. This led to the question, “Why make an exception exclusively for that region?” Taking up this theme in a future Synod was also suggested. Another observed that it is precisely because of celibacy that priests are welcomed by some indigenous populations. Furthermore, it was also stated that today’s world sees celibacy as the last rampart to be demolished using the pressure of a hedonistic and secular culture. It is, therefore, necessary to carry out an attentive reflection on the value of a celibate priesthood.

Others pointed out that a discussion regarding new models of priesthood is both inevitable and desirable. If on the one hand, sending priests to other dioceses and regions is encouraged, then on the other hand, ordaining wise men of proven faith should also be recommended. This hypothesis would not wound communion in the Church, nor would it undermine the value of celibacy. Rather, it might represent a decisive step toward achieving an ordained ministry that does not just visit a territory, but comes from and remains present in it. Another argument is that this response is not being put forward to solve the lack of vocations, but that the Church might have an identity that is truly Amazonian. It was also suggested that the Synod could lay the foundation for this new step forward in faith in the Holy Spirit which must be stronger than the fear of making a mistake.

► Involving women: an antidote to clericalism
The theme of women in the Church was also brought up again in the afternoon, with the request that they be given more pastoral responsibility and effective participation, even at decision-making levels. Discerning the institution of women deacons in the region was also requested. Women today have already acquired greater roles in the life of the Christian community, not only as catechists or mothers, but also as persons capable of taking on new ministries. In addition, it was proposed that the inclusion of women, under the sign of reconciliation of the covenant, could lay the foundation for a less clerical Church. Clericalism is still present in the Church today, one Synod participant emphatically stated, and is an obstacle to service, fraternity and solidarity.

► Listening to the Holy Spirit
A Synod exists to listen constantly to the Holy Spirit. This attitude of listening was proposed as the attitude that might guide and inspire an ecological conversion necessary to counteract the environmental destruction that threatens our planet. The Synod participants were reminded that the Creator entrusted the Amazon to our care. It is the most beautiful and vital garden on the planet. But unfortunately, we risk transforming this “terrestrial paradise” into a “hell” because of the fires raging which could deprive certain indigenous peoples of their indispensable heritage. Walking together means listening to “the agony of Mother Earth” and becoming aware of the “violence behind extractive ethnocide”. The appeal made by indigenous Amazonian organizations is that of reversing the tide, so as not to fall into greater danger.

► Everything is connected
We are all connected to each other. “Good living” (“buen vivir”) does not mean living “the good life”. Rather, it means that we are connected to each other and to the earth. The fragmentation of human existence, that leads to disparity in terms of social condition, needs to be rejected and condemned. Even though globalization has brought undeniable benefits to our lives, it has also opened the door to “wild capitalism” and a materialism that has created an extremely harmful form of consumerism. While the developed world demands cheap products, the indigenous populations who make them often pay the price in blood. From this reality emerged the appeal for a more simple style of life and for an ecological conversion that embraces fairer trade in the name of justice and peace.

► Toward a Church with an indigenous face
Once again the request was heard in the Synod hall to be constantly aware of the suffering of the indigenous population who have a sovereign right to exist in the Amazon. Discovering the seeds of the word of God in the cultures and traditions of the region means recognizing that Christ already lives in the peoples who have not yet heard the Gospel. The Gospel, in fact, is not the exclusive patrimony of any one culture. It is this approach that favors the existence of an indigenous and Amazonian Church, one person said. One proposal is that a new regional structure be instituted which would continue the momentum created by the positive experience of the networks created in the pre-Synod process and the inspirations of the Spirit received during the Synod.

► Gift of religious life in the Amazon
Those at the Synod also heard a precious example of an indigenous person whose life has been offered to God through the religious life, thus helping the Church assume an indigenous face. Men and women religious struggle together for the rights of the people. They also feel called to pursue in their own ongoing formation the discovery of connections between their own indigenous heritage and Christian spirituality. In this way they hope to contribute to an integral ecology leading to the protection of both humankind and nature.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 9 ― Monday, October 14th
Here are the official Vatican News Agency Briefing Bulletins on the Amazon Synod, issued on Monday afternoon and evening to the Press. The worrisome or even dangerous points have been first of all highlighted in red. A commentary and critique of those points will follow shortly.

Official Vatican News Briefing on the Amazon Synod:
The Church’s commitment against violations of the rights of peoples
Issued on October 14th 2019, at 3:36 p.m.

The ninth General Congregation marked the beginning of the second of three weeks of the Special Synod for the Amazon Region, which will end on October 27th. This morning there were 179 Synod Fathers present. Together with the Pope, they prayed for Ecuador.

The Synod is a Kairos, a time of grace: the Church listens with empathy, and walks alongside the land’s indigenous peoples: those who abide in the geographical and existential peripheries that have received the gift of contemplating the "Let there Be", the first word spoken by God, every day. Creation is a ‘green Bible’ that reveals the Creator, and in the celebration of the Sacraments, commitment towards the environment finds its deepest foundation.

► Ongoing formation and catechumenate for a Church that goes forth
In view of the significant decrease in the number of religious communities in the region, as is the case for example in the State of Parà in Brazil, where the presence of constant pastoral care has become limited to visits, religious congregations are asked to revive their missionary enthusiasm. At the same time it is necessary to offer constant formation and catechumenate ways based not only on books, but on grass-roots experience in direct contact with local culture. To take on an Amazonian face means to understand the signs and symbols of these peoples, and to live together in a perspective of dialogue and interculturality, encouraging the deepening of an Indios theology so that the liturgy may increasingly respond to local culture. This implies a dynamism: that is the capacity to go beyond our structures and perspectives. In some cases an outgoing Church is already a reality in the Amazon. There are many examples of pastoral presence that aim to encourage indigenous peoples, who are forgotten by the world, to take their fate into their own hands. Never, however, must we yield to the temptation of an evangelization based exclusively on aid programs. At the same time the Church is called to face the challenges posed on one hand by the proliferation of religious sects, and on the other by a relativistic culture perpetrated by industrialized countries.

► Contribution in an international context
The Church is called to make its voice heard. Some have said that Pontifical representations could continue to play an essential role in Governments and International Bodies in order to promote the demands of the peoples of the Amazon regarding their rights for land, water and forests. In addition, the Church in the Amazon is called upon to promote a circular economy that respects local wisdom and practices. The creation of an international ecclesial observatory on the violation of the human rights of the Amazon peoples has also been called for. Thus the exhortation: industrialized countries should express greater solidarity towards countries with fragile economies, also because they produce higher rates of pollution. Thanks to the multiplicity of interventions and ideas expressed in the Synod Hall, the Synod is strengthening in the participants the idea of a Church that is united around the challenges of the Pan-Amazon region. Every region in the world feels the Amazon is its own and the fruits of this special assembly will benefit the Universal Church.

► Communication favours interconnectivity
The Amazon is a multiethnic, multicultural and multi-religious world where many seeds of the Word have already taken root and are bearing fruit. It is desirable to create an ecosystem of pan-Amazonian ecclesial communication that reflects the interconnectivity of humanity. The idea is to weave not so much a network of cables as a network of human persons. The great difficulties of mobility in the boundless region in fact urgently demand greater effectiveness and widespread reach of the means of social communications. At the same time, it is necessary to help people have a critical reading of the information diffused in a superficial way by some media, unmasking all forms of manipulation, distortion or spectacularization.

► Ministries and discernment
Presence is essential. Not only of priests and bishops, but also of lay collaborators, men and women. A pastoral leader - be he or she a catechist, a lector, someone who ministers to the sick, a deacon, or an extraordinary minister of the Eucharist -- exercises his or her baptismal priesthood when he or she assumes an attitude of service and not of power or dominion. Women are precious collaborators in the mission of the Church in the Amazon, they are irreplaceable in the care they provide in the spirit of the Good Samaritan, in the custody and protection of life. At the same time, in the field of education, the need to transmit the faith, to motivate young people to build their own life projects, to promote the care for our Common Home, to raise awareness about the scourge of human trafficking, to combat illiteracy and school dropout, are all issues that were highlighted. Young people must be helped to integrate ancestral and modern knowledge in order to allow both to contribute to "good living". Under the action of the Spirit, “cum Petrus and sub Petrus”, the Church is therefore urged to convert to an Amazonian perspective and to undertake, without fear, discernment and reflection on the theme of priesthood, also listening to the hypothesis of ordaining married persons, without ever watering down the value of celibacy. In fact, we must always keep in mind the tragedy of those populations who cannot celebrate the Eucharist because of the lack of priests or who receive the Body of Christ only once or twice a year. A reflection was suggested regarding the possible updating of Paul VI’s Apostolic Letter Ministeria Quaedam. The introduction of permanent indigenous deacons and of deacons, who, through the ministry of the Word, will help the local people to better understand the Sacred Texts, was also proposed.

► Protection of our Common Home and irresponsible exploitation
The idea was put forward to create eco-intercultural Christian communities that are open to inter-institutional and interreligious dialogue and that teach new lifestyles aimed towards the care for our common home. Oil and logging companies - it has been denounced - damage the environment and undermine the existence of peoples. In fact, indigenous people do not derive any profit from the extractive industry or from the logging of forests. It is therefore necessary to strongly expose the rampant corruption that feeds inequalities and injustice and to ask ourselves what is it we will leave to future generations. The great threat posed by drug trafficking must also be tackled, together with all that fuels it.

► Access to food and respect for ecosystems
Room was also given to the issue of food sovereignty: every people has the right to choose what to cultivate, what to eat and how to guarantee access to food while respecting ecosystems. A significant part of the agro-food biodiversity in the Amazon is still unknown and has been preserved so far by local populations. The appeal was issued that this is not something that must end up being exploited by few and taken away from the multitude, as has happened on the medical front, where plants and active ingredients have enriched multinational pharmaceutical companies, and nothing has been given in return to the people.

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Official Vatican News Briefing on the Amazon Synod:
New challenges and new solutions
Issued October 14th, 2019, at 5:12 p.m.

Four participants at the Synod for the Amazon met journalists in the Holy See Press Office on Monday afternoon for an exchange of experiences and impressions regarding the 9th General Congregation.
By Vatican News

The 9th General Congregation, held on Monday morning, was attended by 179 Synod Fathers, together with Pope Francis, who opened the session with a prayer for Ecuador.

This was confirmed by the Prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for Communications, Dr Paolo Ruffini, before he invited Jesuit Fr Giacomo Costa, Secretary of the Information Commission, to provide a summary of what was discussed in the Synod Hall.

► Summary by Fr Giacomo Costa SJ
Fr Costa began by affirming how Pope Francis’ Encyclical, Laudato sì, is proving to be more than just a text, but truly rooted in the realities discussed at the Synod. This is being demonstrated by the way “everything is connected”, he said.

► Amazon Synod: The Church’s commitment against violations of the rights of peoples
Summarizing what was discussed in the Synod Hall on Monday morning, Fr Costa listed several themes: dialogue with indigenous people, and the importance of participating in their lives, protecting local peoples’ rights and safeguarding nature. He said the need to remain rooted in the ground of experience coming from local territory was also mentioned.

The Synod Fathers discussed the challenges to local ministries, he said, how to inculturate the liturgy, and how to respond better to the needs and cultures of the people. The Eucharist, continued Fr Costa, was presented as “a source of unity and light”. Participants at the General Congregation, he said, confirmed we are “custodians of nature”, and stressed the integral and ecological focus of the Synod.

Participants at the morning session, said Fr Costa, affirmed the Church’s role of protecting and promoting the local people, of accompanying those without a voice. A suggestion was put forward to set up an international ecclesiastical observatory on the rights of indigenous people. Some Synod participants confirmed the importance of the Church integrating her perspectives into practices concerning human rights.

Fr Costa continued his summary of the proceedings that included the topic of “circular economic models”: access to food that respects the environment, and has a positive impact on local populations. These models can be achieved through an “integral education” that helps promote an equitable consumption of goods, he reported.

Not just education, but information too, was a topic that came under discussion, said Fr Costa. According to Synod participants, the “communication culture” is growing rapidly in the Amazon Region, and we need to “bridge the communications gap”. This means training local indigenous communicators, and establishing communications networks based on community and solidarity.

► Miss Josianne Gauthier, Secretary General CIDSE (Canada)
Miss Josianne Gauthier is Secretary General CIDSE, the “Coopération Internationale pour le Développement et la Solidarité", an umbrella organization for Catholic development agencies from Europe and North America. She began her presentation by saying how CIDSE has spent over 50 years supporting communities, including in the Amazon, promoting integral ecology and defending human rights.

We are here at the Synod, she said, in a “listening position”, to hear stories and to begin work on how to support these messages outside the Synod “in political spaces”. The task of CIDSE, she explained, is to “take struggles and turn them into political pressure”.

Miss Gauthier said those of us who live “from the benefits of the tragic exploitation” that takes places in that part of the world, have a “heightened responsibility”. We need to recognize that “our wellbeing and comfort comes at a cost”, she said: human life, security, peace, and ecological justice.

Miss Gauthier concluded saying we need to promote consciousness and concentrate on “doing what we can after the Synod to transmit these messages”.

► Bishop José Ángel Divassòn Cilveti, S.D.B. of Bamaccora (Venezuela)
Bishop José Ángel Divassòn Cilveti is a Salesian. The Salesians, he said, have been working in the south of Venezuela since 1957. Reflections after the Second Vatican Council led to a new approach that began in 1976, he said: developing new forms of evangelization that support people and help them “take control of their own destinies”. Priests, laypeople, men and women religious, are all involved in this mission and have developed criteria based on participating in people’s live, and respecting communities, educating them, and assisting them with projects, he said.

In order to evangelize effectively, said Bishop Cilveti, we need to be familiar with people’s feelings, to understand what they think. Speaking in terms of his own experience, he said people “want to follow Jesus Christ, they want to change”. The Gospel has brought new concepts like mercy and forgiveness, he said, and these become the keys to solving many problems and conflicts.

The Bishop concluded by describing the Church in his region as a “young Church with different features”, one that helps people to help themselves.

► Bishop Carlo Verzeletti of Castanhal (Brazil)
Bishop Carlo Verzeletti comes from Castanhal, in Brazil. His diocese comprises over 1,000 villages beside the mouth of the Amazon River. His priests, he added, “are few and aging”. They are able to meet people only a few times a year when they visit to celebrate Mass. This “running from one place to another”, does not offer the “presence and proximity, the support and comfort”, the people desire, he said.

The priest becomes the “distributor of the sacraments”, he added. Which is why Bishop Verzeletti supports the ordination of “viri probati”, approved married men, “so that the Eucharist can become a reality that is closer to people and communities”. These would not be “second-rate priests”, he added, but men who are formed accordingly, “devoting their lives to others”.

Bishop Verzetti said his region has been severely affected by colonization and globalization: the result is secularization, religious indifference, and the influence of the Pentecostal churches. “Popular piety cannot resist the impact”, he said.

As an example, Bishop Verzetti said there are 750 Pentecostal churches in his city alone, and only 50 Catholic churches.

He has ordained 110 Permanent Deacons, he said, and works at empowering laypeople, “but with difficulty”. Were the Pope to consider the reality of “viri probati”, concluded the Bishop, “we have worthy people who could be ordained priests”.

Mr José Gregorio Dìaz Mirabal is Coordinator of COICA, the Congress of Indigenous Organizations of the Amazon Basin. His organization represents 4 million indigenous people spread over 4,500 communities in all six countries of the Amazon Region.

The Catholic Church, he said in his presentation, is the only organization calling for the world “to wake up”. Speaking as an indigenous person, he said “we will disappear if we don’t do something”.

The presence of COICA at the Synod, said Mr Mirabal, is to support those who are struggling to protect the land, to stop the “violent invasion of development projects”, including hydroelectric schemes, uncontrolled mining, and the agri-food industry. He spoke of those who are imprisoned and murdered for speaking out against land grabbing, or while trying to stop the pollution of the air and water.

Mr Mirabal concluded by inviting the media to help disseminate these messages.

► A question about statistics
The first question was addressed to Dr Paolo Ruffini and concerned statistics from the Amazon Region. The Prefect of the Vatican Communications Dicastery responded that, while pre-Synod preparations had produced statistical materials, this is not a study conference that requires statistical data. The Church is reflecting on “how to serve the Amazon though pastoral activities”, he said.

The Synod is not about “percentages”, he added, but about “how the Universal Church relates to a territory”. And a territory is best described by those who live there, said Dr Ruffini.

Bishop José Ángel Divassòn Cilveti confirmed that studies on the Church in the Amazon Region have been made by REPAM, and that this data was collected and published in preparation for the Synod.

► A question about sovereignty
Responding to a question on possible interference in the Synod by local governments in the Amazon Region, Bishop Carlo Verzeletti re-affirmed the Church’s respect for the sovereignty of Brazil, in particular. The Church does not give “technical solutions”, he added, but guidelines so that life and rights in the Amazon Region are respected. Resolving economic problems in Brazil doesn’t mean opening up areas in the Amazon that will improve the lives of the rich, but not “the lives of our people”, he said.

With regard to a meeting in the Vatican between the Vice President of Brazil and the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Parolin, Dr Ruffini said it had “no influence on the Synod”. The meeting was about “diplomatic relations between states”, he said, and there was “no connection” with the Synod for the Amazon.

► A question about future Pan-Amazonian organization
A question was asked about the possibility of setting up a future Pan-Amazonian organization after the Synod. It was confirmed that the topic had been raised in one of the small working groups, but there was a concern about multiplying too many organizations when the REPAM network already exists.

Ms Josianne Gauthier added that any form of collaboration is helpful when it comes to defending human rights. As long as there is “clarity of intention”, she said her organization would work with whatever structure is decided upon.

► A question about "viri probati" (married male priests)
In connection with the ordination of approved married men, or “viri probati”, Jesuit Fr Giacomo Costa stressed the desire of the Pope that “all issues” be discussed in order to discern appropriate solutions. Fr Costa confirmed there are “different positions” on this issue, but that “everyone is listening in a respectful way”.

Dr Ruffini added that while some may be in favor and others against, in the end it is not the Synod that decides. The Synod will eventually entrust its reflections to the Holy Father as “something that is still in progress”.

► A question about Ecuador
Responding to a question about the ongoing violence in Ecuador, José Gregorio Dìaz Mirabal said that what is happening throughout the region, “pains all of us”. There are so many challenges in search of solutions, he said.

Bishop José Ángel Divassòn Cilveti added that it is important to be aware of what is happening in these situations. We can only understand if we “look at the overall picture”, he said.

► A question about Church investments
A question was asked regarding Church investments in projects in the Amazon Region. Fr Costa responded saying the Church has already disinvested and is disinvesting from certain products and companies.

Ms Josianne Gauthier added that disinvestment is a way by which the Church can show her “coherence with Laudato sì and integral ecology”, the connection between “words and actions”.

► A question about the Church’s Amazonian face
The last question was about the kinds of changes that need to be made if the Church in the Amazon Region is truly to have an “Amazonian face”.

José Gregorio Dìaz Mirabal responded by repeating that it is not up to the Synod to make decisions. He confirmed, however, that the Church “must reach out”, and must be reflected in the realities of the local people.

He admitted that the Church needs support, and needs to build greater unity with the indigenous people in some parts of the Amazon Region.

In order to make one another stronger, he concluded, we need to “walk together” – even if it means “going barefoot”.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 10 ― Tuesday, October 15th
Here are the official Vatican News Agency Briefing Bulletins on the Amazon Synod, issued on Tuesday afternoon and evening to the Press. The worrisome or even dangerous points have been first of all highlighted in red. A commentary and critique of those points will follow shortly.

Official Vatican News Briefing on the Amazon Synod:
Voices of the Synod: Francis Alleyne, Bishop of Georgetown, Guyana
October 15th, 2019, 4:27 p.m.

Bishop Francis Alleyne, O.S.B., shares his thoughts on his hopes for the Synod, and on the role of religious in the Pan-Amazon region.
By Christopher Wells

Midway through the Synod for the Amazon, Bishop Francis Alleyne, O.S.B., of Georgetown, Guyana, says he believes the Synod will give “some renewal, some refreshment, a strengthening,” that will allow the Church “to see some possibilities that were there, but were perhaps not paid attention to”.

Speaking with Vatican News, Bishop Alleyne praised the discussions in the Synod, saying the ability of participants to share ideas, and to hear the ideas of others “opened channels” that could be “further explored”. At the same time, he acknowledged that the Synod might not find “answers or conclusions right away” but said the meeting would open up “further ways”.

He said that many of the concerns voiced in the Synod Hall reflected challenges in his own Diocese, while others did not have the same impact. But “one thing that stands out”, he said, “is the genuine com-passion and passion from the pastors” – not the “authority area of the Church,” but the real concerns of the “men on the ground”.

A member of the Order of St Benedict, Bishop Alleyne noted that many of his fellow Bishops at the Synod are also religious. He said that one of the gifts religious men and women bring is that of “community”, which can help when facing the challenges of mission and evangelization.

Asked about vocations among the indigenous people, the Bishop said, “If the Church gives a genuine witness, it is something that the people themselves would warm to – and I do see where a genuine witness has drawn some of the indigenous people to religious life”. Sharing his own observations, Bishop Alleyne said, “I have seen qualities that are nurtured in the [indigenous] culture that I find very suitable religious life”; and, he added, “if they took that step, it would be a continuum, a step further for their culture”.

Listen to Bishop Francis Alleyne, OSB
Bishop Francis Alleyne spoke with Sr. Bernadette Reis, F.S.P., and Christopher Wells for this report.

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Amazon Synod: The need for a permanent episcopal Pan-Amazonian structure
October 15th, 2019, 4:33 p.m.

The 11th General Congregation of the Special Synod for the Amazon Region on the theme “Amazonia: New Paths for the Church and for an Integral Ecology” took place in the Vatican on Tuesday involving 180 Synod Fathers and in the presence of Pope Francis.
by Vatican News

The need to urgently create a permanent and representative episcopal structure, coordinated by REPAM (Pan-Amazonian Ecclesial Network), to promote synodality in the Amazon: this was one of the suggestions that emerged from the morning congregation. Integrated with CELAM (Latin American Episcopal Council), the proposed structure should help implement the face of the Amazon Church, aimed at a more effective, shared pastoral care - also giving concrete form to any indications that Pope Francis may wish to provide after the Synod - and working for the defense of the rights of indigenous peoples, the integral formation of pastoral agents and the creation of Amazonian seminaries. This joint pastoral action, elaborated synodally by all the Pan-Amazonian dioceses would be useful to face common problems, such as the exploitation of the territory, crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking and prostitution.

► An Observatory for Human Rights and Protection of the Amazon
Participants at the morning congregation then turned their attention to the indigenous peoples, focusing on the problems that stem from colonization, internal migration and the advancement of predatory and colonialist economic models, which often kill. This entails the expropriation and eviction of communities from their territories, forcing them to migrate against their will. The nomadic indigenous peoples must be understood through a specific pastoral care, so that their human and environmental rights are always guaranteed. This includes their right to be consulted and informed before any action takes place in their respective territories. In this regard, a permanent observatory for human rights and the protection of the Amazon was suggested. The cry of the earth and of the Amazonian peoples must be heard, giving voice, above all, to young people, because it is a question of inter-generational justice.

► Inculturation and education
The theme of inculturation was also discussed: the need for the Church to open up and discover new paths in the rich diversity of Amazonian cultures in order to be more like a disciple and sister than a Teacher and Mother, with an attitude of listening, service, solidarity, respect, justice and reconciliation. Linked to the theme of inculturation, the education of indigenous Amazonian peoples was brought up again, an education which is, unfortunately, characterized by poor quality and discontinuity. What can the Church do as one of the most qualified and powerful institutions in the field of formation? It was suggested that structures coordinate better with one another in order to offer improved services to indigenous peoples. For example, Catholic universities could introduce a preferential option for the education of indigenous peoples, or generate solidarity strategies to economically support indigenous universities, such as Nopoki, in Peru. The aim of this would be to protect the right to cultural identity and safeguard the ancestral wisdom of the original Amazonian peoples, in the name of dialogue and exchange of cultures, sensitivity, languages and visions.

► Missionary commitment and the witness of the martyrs
The Synod Fathers then reflected on the theme of violence: it was stressed that the Amazon is like a woman who has been raped and whose cry needs to be heard, because only in this way can evangelization be reawakened. The effective proclamation of the Gospel takes place only when it is in contact with the pain of the world that is waiting to be redeemed by the love of Christ, thanks to a theology of life. Strong reference was made to the precious example of the martyred missionaries of the region, such as Bishop Alejandro Labaka, the Capuchin tertiary nun Inés Arango, and Sister Dorothy Stang, who gave their lives in the name of the cause of the defenseless Amazon peoples and for the protection of the territory. It was reiterated in the Synod Hall that missionary work in the Amazon must be supported more. For this reason there were ideas about creating a financial fund, both national and international, to strengthen the mission in the region, especially to cover transportation costs and to train the missionaries themselves.

► The ecumenical challenge
Missionary commitment must also be carried out from an ecumenical perspective because a missionary Church is also an ecumenical Church. This challenge also concerns the Amazon: far from any kind of proselytism or intra-Christian colonialism, Christian evangelization is the free invitation, regarding the freedom of others, to enter into communication and engage in life-giving dialogue. An attractive evangelization will, therefore, be the proof of credible ecumenism. Another point for reflection was offered by music, a common language understood by all that leads one to reflect on the communication of faith. It must not contradict doctrine - explained the Synod Fathers - but must make it understood through human sensitivity. In this way, the Good News will be attractive to all, journeying towards that rebirth of the sacred that is lived even in the far-flung areas of the Amazon.

► The response of the Eucharist
Faced with the difficult situations that are experienced in the Amazon, important answers come from the Eucharist, through which God's grace passes, and from a widespread ministry, which also begins with women, who are undisputed protagonists when it comes to transmitting the radical meaning of life. It was mentioned in the Synod Hall that we must ask ourselves if it might be necessary to re-think ministry. Many communities have difficulty celebrating the Eucharist because of the lack of priests. It was suggested that the criteria for selecting and preparing ministers authorized to administer the Eucharist be changed, so as not to limit this ministry to only a few.

► Women in ministry, following the example of antiquity
New paths to ancient traditions are needed, reaffirmed the Synod Fathers. Some of the interventions during the Congregation recalled the ancient practices that saw ministries linked to women. The Synod Fathers reflected on the possibility of restoring similar ministries, particularly for the ministry of Lector and Acolyte. Another intervention mentioned the possibility of dispensing with celibacy, in order to ordain married men as “ministers” who, under the supervision of a responsible local priest, could minister in far flung ecclesial communities. At the same time, it was suggested that a fund be set up to finance the formation of the laity in the biblical, theological and pastoral spheres, so that they can better contribute to the evangelizing mission of the Church. A final reflection regarded the importance of base communities and consecrated life, which offers a prophetic message to the ends of the Earth.

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Synod Day 8: Leaving room for the abundant outpouring of the Spirit
October 15th, 2019, 9:53 p.m.

Pope Francis attended the 12th and final General Congregation of the Synod of Bishops on Tuesday afternoon. There were 173 Synod Fathers present. On Wednesday morning, Synod participants return to working in the small language groups. Their work will be presented to the assembly on Thursday afternoon, 17 October.
Vatican News – Vatican City

The Amazonian world wants a Church that is allied to it. The Synod participants were reminded that the Church cannot speak of the poor while forgetting that the people are being crucified. That would be committing the sin of indifference, of omission. The Church is called to take up the cry of the people and of the earth, with the Gospel as her point of departure. This is the only way that she will assume the countenance of the Good Samaritan, will become missionary, capable of defending the least, without being afraid of the possibility of martyrdom. “It is better to die fighting for life, than to live for death”, as one person boldly stated. Thus the Synod continued its journey with a reminder that came up in several interventions to leave space for the abundant outpouring of the Holy Spirit rather than remaining closed in by functional solutions.

► No to victimization, more co-responsibility
The populations in several of the more vulnerable regions of Amazon see themselves as having often been abandoned. One example are street children. The Church is called to help them to boost their self-esteem, to prevent them from becoming victims. In the end, this too is a risk because it is not solving the underlying problems. The region itself is undeniably a victim of abuse. What is truly necessary, it was noted, is to help the people themselves feel co-responsible for the construction of their own destiny. Believers, therefore, should be at the forefront of reclaiming their rights and assuming the obligation of living simply and hopefully as they journey toward the Kingdom promised by God to His children.

► Fundamental contribution of science for the care of creation
The cry for help arising both from the people and from the earth involves a response from everyone. Believers are called to recognize the value of every creature. In fact, care for our Common Home is rooted in the Christian vocation. Action is a must on the part of individuals, communities and the world. A disinterested response is not possible. The future of entire generations is at stake. Protecting the Amazon from man-made destruction is a responsibility that touches all of humanity. Thus arose the appeal for a global response to climate change through the creation of an entity that would coordinate scientists and academics on the international level with the Pontifical Academy of Sciences. The hope was also expressed that greater work be undertaken in the field of education to sensitize the public regarding the care of our Common Home. It was even proposed that a new Canon –an ecological canon – be added to the Code of Canon Law which would treat the duties of Christians regarding the environment.

► Putting out into the deep for a profound ecological conversion
The Church’s appeal is that of putting out into the deep, assuming the call for a profound ecological, synodal, and complete conversion to Christ and His Gospel. Walking together as a universal family is the invitation now being extended, within the conviction that the Amazon region does not belong to either the States or those who govern them. They are, rather, administrators and they must be accountability of what they are doing.

Through the daily gift of self made by the laity – consecrated or married – the Church as “sacrament” will be truly be formed in Amazonia, and will manifest the presence of Christ in that region. The need was expressed for a spirituality and a sacramental theology capable of allowing itself to be challenged by the lived experience of the communities and the gifts which they have already received. In this regard, the work already undertaken to coordinate efforts at the level of the local church (such as REPAM) was encouraged.

► Symmetry of relations
An intercultural dialogue inspired by the Spirit of Pentecost was also highlighted. The invitation is to let go of the habit of imposing or of appropriating in order to embrace, what was termed, a “symmetry of relations”. Humility was named at the attitude necessary for such a dialogue, founded on the common conviction of being co-responsible in the care of the Common Home. What is not possible alone can be done together. This requires the urgent construction of an inclusive “we”, in which every person, although each is different, is necessary precisely because each is different. Thus the proposal for the creation of formative processes in intercultural dialogue in which theory can be tested by praxis.

► The drama of priestless communities
Once again, the Synod participants were reminded about the realistic drama of the many communities, an estimated 70% in the Amazon region, that are visited by a priest only once or twice each year. They are deprived of the sacraments, of the Word of God, of those celebrations so central to the Christian life, such as Easter, Pentecost, Christmas. Some choose to frequent other Christian denominations so as not to remain in the condition of “sheep without a shepherd”. The universal Church cannot remain indifferent to this situation. Courageous choices, open to the voice of the Spirit, need to be made. It was also pointed out how fundamental it is to pray to the “Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers into His harvest”. The pastoral care of the people of God is “first and foremost the concern of the Lord”, one Synod Father stated. Thus we must ask Him for the solutions.

► Mission: in the footsteps of Jesus
It seems to some that the passion for mission has faded in the most remote areas. Some areas are heavily affected by the consequences provoked by large, unsustainable mining projects: illness (some of which are non-curable), drug trafficking, loss of identity. The international community needs to be exhorted not to invest in industrial projects that provoke harm and illness to the surrounding populations. In addition, the Amazon needs missionaries, for they are the only ones that the local populations still trust.

One such missionary effort that was spoken of is the precious contribution of itinerant missionary teams inspired by Jesus who visited village after village without stopping, without even having a place to stay. This provides a model for the Church always “on the move”, leaving behind a pastoral ministry meant to preserve the past to one that is creative. Certain structures, it was noted, are already obsolete and are in desperate need of updating. We can no longer be “obsolete” while the rest of the world moves ahead. The Gospel, in fact, always has something new to say. This too is a part of the ecological conversion. Openness to new forms of ministry means the incorporation of women and young people.

► Migrants in the cities, torn from their territories
The Church is called to enter into the everyday lives of men and women—collegially and synodally. Once again, the topic of migrants w—those uprooted and transplanted in the cities – was brought to the attention of those in the Hall. There in the cities, they are forced to confront strong contrasting situations: political, social, economic, the existential void, exasperated individualism. Making the Gospel present there is a duty, and in this way, the city becomes a place for mission and sanctification.

It was therefore recommended that a specific pastoral ministry be promoted in this context which considers the indigenous migrants as the protagonist. The connection of the land with a particular people as expressed in the Bible helps understand the gravity of tearing a people from their own territory. Defending their territory is of utmost importance both for the Amazonian biome and for the way of life of the local populations. In this sense, an “intransigent defense” of the indigenous peoples was recommended. This includes the right to their own culture, their own theology, their own religion – these are riches that need to be safeguarded in the interest of all humanity.

Finally, the problem of food was brought up. With its fresh water, the Amazon could contribute in reducing hunger in the world. In fact, 26% of the world’s fresh water comes from this region. Due to this fact, one person suggested that sustainable projects should be encouraged.

At the end of the 12th General Congregation, just before the part dedicated to spontaneous interventions, Pope Francis asked to speak. When he had finished, those in the Hall watched a film about the floating hospital named after Pope Francis which was inaugurated this past August. This hospital serves two purposes: that of bringing the Gospel and health care to hundreds of thousands living in the Brazilian State of Parà along the Amazon River who can only be reached by river.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 11 ― Wednesday, October 16th
Here is the official Vatican News Agency Briefing Bulletin on the Amazon Synod, issued on Wednesday afternoon to the Press. The worrisome or even dangerous points have been first of all highlighted in red. A commentary and critique of those points will follow shortly.

Official Vatican News Briefing on the Amazon Synod:
Voices of the Synod: Bishop Malzaire, Dominica
October 16th, 2019, 4:22 p.m.

Bishop Malzaire says that no one is exempt from the effects of climate change and that Bishops have a responsibility to address the issue not only for the Amazon but for the world.

In 2017 the island of Dominica in the West Indies was devastated by hurricane Maria.

Homes were destroyed and the island's lush vegetation was nearly wiped out.

Gabriel Malzaire, Bishop of Roseau, on Dominica and President of the Episcopal Conference of the Antilles remembers that terrible time while speaking to Vatican News on the sidelines of the Synod for the Amazon.

“We of course have seen the effects of it (climate change) in the Caribbean, especially in the Northern Caribbean with the prevalence of hurricanes,” he says.

For him and his episcopal conference, the issue of ecology and that of climate change is of great concern. He underlines that the ecological question is a very big one, but he also adds, that while the Amazon is of great concern, climate change is a universal concern. The Bishop notes that the purpose of this Synod is to “look at the issue and to come up with some recommendations as to bring a conversion process; not a conversion only on the part of those who are affected by it, but those who cause (it).” He goes on to say that what is needed is a conversion of lifestyle, consumer consumption and a shift especially from a development of material things to a development of peoples.

Bishop Malzaire points out that the most important thing to realize is that “everything is connected, everyone is connected.” “Whatever happens in one part of the world affects the other.”

The Bishop sums up by saying, “there is no one who is exempt from the effects of climate change, so therefore we have the absolute responsibility to address the issue not only for the Amazon but for the world.”

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 12 ― Thursday, October 17th
Here arer the official Vatican News Agency Briefing Bulletins on the Amazon Synod, issued on Thursday to the Press. The worrisome or even dangerous points have been first of all highlighted in red. A commentary and critique of those points will follow shortly.

Official Vatican News Briefing on the Amazon Synod:
Voices of the Synod: Bishop Choennie, Suriname
October 17th, 2019, 08:47 a.m.

The Bishop of Paramaribo in Suriname highlights the need for an ecological conversion and stresses the important role of women in the Church.

“We are the greenest country on earth, 93% covered by the forests. We have little carbon foot print, yet still we feel the scorch of climate change and ecological crisis,” says Karel Martinus Choennie, Bishop of Paramaribo in Suriname, a country located on the northern coast of South America.

Speaking to Vatican News on the sidelines of the Synod for the Amazon, the Bishop points out that what is needed is an “ecological conversion because the world is at a crisis and we’ll have to act collectively to change the crisis.”

So what can be done to bring about this conversion? Bishop Choennie says that, “it will call for a complete change of lifestyle and solidarity and for the development of our own resources because we are rich in natural resources."

Indeed, Surname’s economy is dependent on the supply of natural resources, most notably bauxite, (the principal ore of aluminum) of which it is one of the top producers in the world.

He goes on to say that, “we should look at it from the point of integral ecology, so not only how much profit do we m,ake but how does ecology affect the social structures.”

During the daily press briefing at the Holy See Press office on Wednesday a question was raised about the role of women in the Church, with the Bishops present noting the important part they have to play in missionary work, catechesis, liturgy, in caring for the poor and in caring for children.

This is something Bishop Choennie is also keen to highlight saying, “I have also stressed the recognition of the role of the women in the Church that there be ministries created where their input is recognized.”

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Amazon Synod: For the 1st time the indigenous are the subjects of their own history
October 17th, 2019, 1:54 p.m.

Missionary Father Peter Hughes, says the Amazon Synod is finally giving the people of the Amazon the occasion to make their voices heard and to engage all of us in caring for our Common Home.

One of the participants in the Special Synod on the Amazon is an Irish Columban priest, who has spent over five decades as a missionary based in Latin America.

Father Peter Hughes, who has spent most of his life in Peru, has closely been engaged in the formation and in the development of the REPAM ― the Church network for the defense of Amazonia ― and also in the preparation for the ongoing Synod.

He told Linda Bordoni “it’s becoming crystal clear that the will of God, as expressed by Pope Francis, particularly through his documents and especially by Laudato Si”, that care for the planet and for all of its peoples “is at the heart of our Christian Faith”.

Father Hughes said the Church has chosen to commit itself to the defense of the Amazon and its people “because of our love of God.”

“It’s our way to say thanks and it’s our way to give joy to the God of Creation, it’s to express our appreciation for Creation, in all its living creatures and all its marvelous manifestation on Earth,” he said.

Noting that the Church has taken upon herself to highlight the need to care for the earth and defend a territory “that is so important and so under attack with all the aggression and the destruction of the environment and the dangers to the people who have lived there for thousands of years”, Fr. Hughes suggested we should all take a step backward, “to the very basis of the Bible” which tells of the creation of the heavens and the Earth. He said this would allow us to take a major step forward during the life of the Church at this particular moment.

“I think – as many have said in the Synod – this is a very important moment in the life of the Church in which the Lord is calling us all to renew a spirit of our Faith and our Catholicity, to be involved in the care of Our Common Home,” he said.

► The time for integral ecology
Father Hughes also specified that it means caring in particular for the people who are most vulnerable, the poor – the ones who are left out – and agreeing that “the way forward is what Pope Francis calls ‘integral ecology’ where the poor and the environment are united and integrated together”.

► Involvement of the indigenous people in preparation for the Synod
Father Hughes said the level of involvement of the indigenous peoples of the Amazon has been very deep throughout the whole preparation process for the Synod. He said: “they are very grateful, in particular to Pope Francis,” for creating this forum in which their voices are finally being heard.

► 87,000 indigenous voices recorded
He explained that the whole process of preparation lasted almost 2 years and that during that period, 45 territorial meetings were held in order “to give the opportunity to the whole Church in the Amazon to come together with their bishops and to voice their suffering, their concerns, what they are living day-to-day as victims of the extractive industries that are treating their environment to the detriment of their health, their lands, their rivers.”

Their concerns, their fears and their feelings, he said, came across loud and clear during this preparation process.

“There is evidence for this in the more than 87 thousand voices recorded, of a deep sense of thanks, particularly to Pope Francis and to the Church for giving them the possibility, for the first time on such a great level, to be able to raise their voice, articulate their concerns, for the whole world, not just for the Catholic Church but for society at large,” he said.

► The subjects of their own history
For the first time, Father Hughes noted, the indigenous people of the Amazon “have become the subjects of their own history, and they want a place at the table. They demand to be heard at the concert of nations.”

So, he pointed out, the Synod marks a key moment for the presence of the Amazonian people, not only in the life of the Church ― but for the world at large ― because as we are hearing in the Synod Hall, “the destruction of the environment implicates not just the Church, but obviously the economic, the political and the cultural powers of us all.”

At the end of the second week of the three-week Synod, Father Hughes commented on the excellent spirit and atmosphere in the Assembly.

“The climate is very serious, people have prepared very well, and there is a tremendous recognition of the preparation process,” he said stressing his conviction that it is very important to constantly make the connection and the integration with the previous two years of listening.

“In that sense, I am very happy that there is a solid connection and integration between the bishops and their own people,” he said.

Father Hughes concluded underscoring that it is also important to point out that “the atmosphere is festive: one of joy, of a real sense of the Spirit present in the Synod”.

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Synod: A living dialogue with the people of the Amazon
October 17th, 2019, 3:14 p.m.

Kenyan Consolata Sister Mary Agnes Mwangi shares her 19 year experience of being a missionary of dialogue with the people of the Amazon.

Of the many delegates that have been attending the Synod for the Amazon over this past two weeks Kenyan Consolata Sister Mary Agnes Mwangi is one of those who has had first-hand experience of living among the people there.

She has come to the Synod to share her experience of a 19 year dialogue with them.

Her Amazon story began in the year 2000 when she traveled to the Northern part of Brazil where she learned the language and began engaging with the people.

Sr. Mwangi’s focus has been on intercultural dialogue with the indigenous population, as she says, “trying to come up with a method… as in an evangelization method.”

She describes how being a Consolata Sister signifies being a woman of dialogue and she goes on to say that she believes this is an “appropriate way to be a missionary” among groups of Indians in the Amazon. Mission she points out, is about “dialogue as a witness of Faith and also sharing of life, justice; that people may live and find themselves living their own spirituality that is very important to maintain; it has to do with the interrelationship," she says.

Asked about what she would like to see coming out of the Synod, she answers, “I would like to see all of us move from this Synod with a strong decision and a disponibility (availability) to be among the people to learn their language; to share their life so that there can be this reciprocity.”

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Amazon Synod Briefing: Education and the rights of Nature
October 17th, 2019, 4:45 p.m.

Synod participants continue their discussions in small working groups on Thursday morning, and a panel of experts share their experiences during a briefing at the Holy See Press Office.
By Vatican News

Those experiences all came directly from the Amazon Region thanks to the four guests on the panel: they included an indigenous educator from Guyana, an expert in indigenous spirituality, and a specialist in indigenous rights, both from Brazil.

► Miss Leah Rose Casimero
Miss Leah Rose Casimero coordinates a bilingual education program for Wapichan children in Guyana. In her presentation, she spoke of how education systems have been “imposed” on her people “along with everything else”. The time has come, she said, “to take our future into our own hands”.

This implies “creating something better for our children” in terms of culture, traditional knowledge, and language, she said. In her educational model, language is not taught as a subject, but as the medium itself.

Miss Casimero is herself Wapichan and said indigenous people are not often listened to. This is not the case in the Synod, however, where she feels people respect one another, speaking and listening “as partners”.

► Miss Patricia Gualinga
Miss Patricia Gualinga is an indigenous leader of the Kichwa community in Sarayaku, Ecuador. In her intervention she called for an “institutional commitment” to save the Amazon. Confirming it is one of the most important biomes on the planet, she said this kind of commitment would be “for the benefit of all humanity”.

The Church is present in the Amazon Region, said Miss Gualinga, but needs to be even closer to the indigenous people “who are in the forefront” and who risk being “persecuted and killed”. Nature, she concluded, is our common home.

► Dr. Felicio de Araujo Pontes Junior
Dr. Felicio de Araujo Pontes Junior is a specialist in indigenous rights who works in Brazil. He described how he provides legal protection to indigenous people living in the forests, and along the rivers of the Amazon, when they come into conflict with “development models that are imposed on the region”.

► Fr. Justino Sarmento Rezende, S.D.B.
Fr. Justino Sarmento Rezende has been a Salesian priest for 25 years, and is an expert in indigenous and inculturated pastoral spirituality in Brazil. His presentation focused on creating an Amazonian Church with “a new face”. He spoke of “giving value to tradition and cultures”, and said he dreams of developing “new ways of evangelizing”. Fr. Rezende concluded by inviting journalists present in the Vatican Press Office to “Come to the Amazon and see for yourselves!”.

► Archbishop Roque Paloschi
Archbishop Roque Paloschi of Porto Velho in Brazil said his intervention at the Synod had dealt with the issue of “indigenous people living in voluntary isolation”. He quoted Pope Francis’ Encyclical, Laudato sì, when it addresses the dangers of allowing cultures to disappear, and repeated the need to “protect our vulnerable brothers and sisters” in the Amazon Region.

► A question about a Church with an Amazonian face
In response to a question, Fr. Justino Sarmento Rezende expanded on the idea of a Church with an Amazonian face: “A face is an expression of what is in our hearts”, he said. In this sense, it doesn’t necessarily mean doing things the way the original missionaries did, he added. We need to “evangelize in our own language”, we need to “know and understand the lives of indigenous people”. This means being “present”, said Fr. Rezende.

► A question about intercultural education
Answering a question directed at her personally, Miss Leah Rose Casimero described something of her experience in the field of intercultural education with Wapichan children in Guyana. That experience is just a year old, she said, as the bilingual model was only implemented in September 2018. Which is why “training teachers is a priority”, she said.

Miss Casimero explained how this is the first experiment at “incorporating indigenous language, knowledge, traditions, and ways of life”, with national educational standards. In fact, the Ministry of Education in Guyana is starting to revise the education system in the country and is following her program “with interest”, she said, to see if it can be applied among other indigenous people.

► A question about inculturation
Archbishop Roque Paloschi responded to a journalist who asked whether inculturation was seen as “an end in itself”. He explained that the Church is committed to inculturation which means respecting “both sides”, not eliminating the culture of the other, but preserving that which is already present. He quoted Benedict XVI as saying the Church does not evangelize by proselytizing, but by witnessing.

► A question about development models
Dr. Felicio de Araujo Pontes Junior responded to a question concerning development models, and considering Nature as a legal issue. He distinguished between what he called “predatory models”, like logging and mining, and “socio-environmental models” that engage with institutions and governments.

Research shows that “a new species is discovered in the Amazon every 15 days”, he said. The Amazon forest is an “asset”, he added. Allowing it to thrive “makes economic sense”, and the indigenous people are “the guardians” of these assets. “Nature has rights”, concluded Dr. de Araujo Pontes. “Humanity cannot destroy ecosystems in the name of progress”, he said.

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Synod for the Amazon: Pope meets with group of indigenous people
October 18th, 2019, 08:07 a.m.

Pope Francis meets with a group of indigenous people participating in the Synod for the Pan-Amazon Region and confirms the need to inculturate the Gospel.
By Vatican News

On Thursday afternoon around 3.30pm, Pope Francis met with about 40 indigenous people, some of them participants at the Synod for the Amazon, others engaged in parallel cultural activities currently underway in Rome. The group was accompanied by Brazilian Cardinal Claudio Hummes, and Archbishop Roque Paloschi of Porto Velho, Brazil.

According to a statement by the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, the meeting opened with two brief speeches, read by a woman and a man, representing the indigenous people. “They expressed their gratitude to the Holy Father for convoking the Synod, and asked for help in implementing their desire to ensure a peaceful and happy life for their peoples, caring for their land, and protecting its waters, for their descendants to enjoy”.

Pope Francis then addressed a few words to those present, underlining how the Gospel is like a seed, which falls onto the soil it finds, and grows with the characteristics of that soil. With reference to the Amazon Region, continues the Vatican Press Office statement, “the Holy Father pointed out the dangers of new forms of colonization”.

Finally, referring to the origins of Christianity, which was born in the Jewish world, developed in the Greek-Latin world, and then reached other lands, Slavic, Eastern, and American, Pope Francis reiterated the need to inculturate the Gospel so that “people can receive the announcement of Jesus with their own culture”.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 13 ― Friday, October 18th
Here are the official Vatican News Agency Briefing Bulletins on the Amazon Synod, issued on Friday evening to the Press. The worrisome or even dangerous points have been first of all highlighted in red. A commentary and critique of those points will follow shortly.

Official Vatican News Briefing on the Amazon Synod:
Amazon Synod: reports of small working groups
October 18th, 2019, 5:02 p.m.

The 13th General Congregation took place on Thursday afternoon, October 17, and was devoted to the presentation of reports prepared in the small working groups. 177 Synod Fathers were present, as well as Pope Francis. The contributions, submitted to the General Secretariat of the Synod, do not constitute an official document of the Synod. Rather, they are a summary of the discussions that took place among the Synod participants.
Vatican News

The Synod is a precious gift of the Spirit for the Amazon and for the whole Church, both from the theological and pastoral point of view, and for the inescapable task of caring for our common home. It is a Kairos, a time of grace, a favorable opportunity for the Church to reconcile with the Amazon. This is the common thread that unites the twelve reports of the small working groups that was presented in the Synod Hall on Thursday afternoon.

► A universal Synod
All the publicly read texts express the hope that in the Amazon a new synodal path will develop and that from the assembly of bishops in the Vatican a new start will be made with an ardent missionary passion typical of a true outward looking Church. The hope is that the Amazonian “good life” will meet with the experience of the Beatitudes: in fact, in the light of the Word of God, it reaches its full realization. There are many and varied concrete proposals from the various groups that need clarification: the current one is not only a regional Synod, but universal, what happens in the Amazon affects the whole world.

► A Church for the poor and against all forms of violence
An imperative for the Church is to listen to the cry of the people and of the earth; not to be silent, to stand on the side of the poor and say “no to violence”. The latter in the Amazon has several faces: violence in overcrowded prisons; sexual abuse and exploitation; violation of the rights of indigenous peoples; the murder of defenders of the territories; drug trafficking and narco-business; extermination of the youth population; trafficking in human beings; feminicide and macho culture; genocide, biopiracy, ethnocide: all evils to be fought because they kill both culture and spirit. The condemnation of the systematic extractivist violation and deforestation is clear. Someone highlighted the link between abuse of the weakest and abuse of nature. Among the various emergencies highlighted, ample space was given to the theme of the climate crisis.

► Proposed International Ecclesial Observatory on Human Rights
It is the indigenous people who pay the highest price with their lives, because they are not assisted, they are not protected in their territories. This is why more than one Small Group called for the establishment of an International Observatory of Human Rights, in the conviction that the defense of peoples and nature must be the prerogative of ecclesial and pastoral action. It was also suggested that parishes should create safe spaces for children, adolescents and vulnerable people. The right to life of all from conception to natural death was reaffirmed.

► Church not an NGO. More ecumenical dialogue
The Church ― one of the reports advises ― has the task of accompanying the work of the defenders of human rights often criminalized by public authorities. At the same time, however, it must avoid resembling an NGO (non-profit organization). This risk, together with the risk of presenting oneself in a purely ritualistic capacity, often causes the loss of many faithful who seek answers to their thirst for spirituality from religious sects or other confessions. From the Small Groups comes the request to pursue ecumenical and interreligious dialogue with greater energy with the proposal of two centers of comparison, one in the Amazon and one in Rome, between the theologians of RELEP (Network of Latin American Pentecostal Studies) and Catholic theologians.

► Ministries, laity and rejection of clericalism
A ministry of presence is called for to avoid clericalism. In this regard, a greater role must be given to the laity. Almost all the Small Groups asked for a deeper understanding of the meaning of the “ministerial Church”, that is, a Church where the co-responsibility and commitment of the laity coexist. The “Spanish A” Circle asked, for example, that men and women be given ministries in an equitable manner, while avoiding the risk of clericalizing the laity.

► Woman and the deaconate
The theme of women is present in more than one relation with the request to recognize, even in roles of greater responsibility and leadership, the great value offered by the presence of women in their specific service to the Church in the Amazon. For example, in the workplace, we are asked to guarantee respect for women's rights and the overcoming of any kind of stereotype. Most Small Groups called for attention to be paid to the issue of the diaconate for women from the perspective of Vatican II, bearing in mind that many functions of this ministry are already performed by women in the region. However, it has been suggested that more than one address should be devoted to the subject in another assembly of bishops, where perhaps women should be given the power to vote.

► Priesthood and viri probati
Suggested is an ad hoc Universal Synod also on the theme of the viri probati. On this subject, the perspectives differ from one working group to the next. It was pointed out that the value of celibacy, a gift to be offered to indigenous communities, is not in question. Italian Circle A warned against the risk that this value will be weakened or that the introduction of viri probati could lose the missionary impetus of the universal Church in the service of the most distant communities. Most of the reports, mainly those in Spanish and Portuguese, aimed at a Church “of presence” rather than “of visit”, and are in favor of a way of conferring the priesthood on married men, of good reputation, preferably indigenous chosen by the communities of origin, but under specific conditions. It was also stressed that these priests should not be considered second or third category, but true priestly vocations. We should not forget the drama of many populations currently receiving the sacraments once or twice a year in the Amazon, we have also been asked to strengthen in local communities the awareness that not only the Eucharist, but also the Word of God represents a spiritual nourishment for the faithful.

► Vocational crisis and priestly formation
Considering the size of the pan-amazonic territory and the scarcity of ministers, the creation of a regional fund for the sustainability of evangelization has been hypothesized. In addition, the Italian Circle A expressed “perplexity” about “the lack of reflection on the causes that led to the proposal to overcome in some form priestly celibacy as expressed by the Second Vatican Council and the subsequent Magisterium. At the same time, it is hoped that there will be ongoing formation in ministry aimed at configuring the priest to Christ, and it is urged that missionaries who currently exercise their priestly ministry in the north of the world be sent to the Amazon. In the face of the vocational crisis, the Small Circles note a substantial decrease in the presence of religious in the Amazon and hope for a renewal of religious life, which, at the instigation of the Latin American Confederation of Religious, CLAR, will be promoted with renewed ardor, especially as regards the contemplative life. Eyes are also being focused on the formation of the laity: let it be integral and not only doctrinal, but also Kerigmatic, founded on the social doctrine of the Church and leads to an experience and encounter with the Risen One. At the same time strengthening the formation of priests is being proposed: it should not only be academic, it should take place in the Amazon territories and provide concrete experiences of the Church looking outwards, alongside the people who suffer, in prisons or hospitals. The establishment of indigenous seminaries where local theology could be studied and deepened has also been proposed.

► Intercultural dialogue and inculturation
The Small Circles are also asking for the consolidation of a theology and pastoral care with an indigenous face. Intercultural dialogue and inculturation should not be understood as antithetical. The task of the Church is not to decide for the Amazonian people or to take a position of conquest, but to accompany, to walk together in a synodal perspective of dialogue and listening. For example, the proposal to introduce an “Amazonian Rite” has been advanced, which would allow the spiritual, theological, liturgical and disciplinary development of the singular richness of the Catholic Church in the region. As explained in one of the reports, “symbols and gestures of local cultures can be valued in the liturgy of the Church in the Amazon, preserving the substantial unity of the Roman rite, since the Church does not want to impose a rigid uniformity in that which does not affect the faith”. The promotion of knowledge of the Bible is also suggested, encouraging its translation into local languages. In this perspective the creation of an Ecclesial Council of the Pan-amazonic Church was proposed, an ecclesiastical structure linked to CELAM, and connected with REPAM, and with the Episcopal Conferences of the Amazonian countries. “The Amazonian cosmovision” ― it is stated in one of the reports ― has so much to teach the western world dominated by technology, very often at the service of the “idolatry of money”. The Amazonian peoples consider their territory sacred: a reflection on the spiritual value of the biome, of biodiversity and of the right to land should therefore be encouraged. On the other hand, the proclamation of the Gospel and the originality of Christ's victory over death, while respecting the culture of peoples, must be considered an essential element for embracing and understanding the Amazonian cosmovision.

► Mission and martyrdom
The missionary is called to strip him/herself of the colonialist mentality, overcome ethnic preconceptions, respect customs, rites and beliefs. The manifestations with which peoples express their faith ― the Small Circles state ― should be appreciated, accompanied and promoted. The creation of a pan-amazonic socio-pastoral Observatory in coordination with CELAM, the diocesan justice and peace commissions, the CLAR and REPAM was also suggested. Lights and shadows must be recognized in the history of the Church in the Amazon. A distinction must be made between the “indigenous” Church, which considers indigenous people as passive recipients of pastoral care, and the “indigenous” Church, which understands them as protagonists of its own experience of faith, according to the principle “Save the Amazon with the Amazon”. It is also important to value the shining example given by many missionaries and martyrs who in the Amazon gave their lives for the love of the Gospel. The Spanish Circle A proposes to encourage the processes of beatification of the Amazon martyrs.

► Migration, youth and cities
In the texts read in the hall we do not forget the populations in voluntary isolation and we ask that they be accompanied by the work of itinerant missionary teams. There is also room for the theme of immigration, especially among young people. Today, 80% of the population of the Amazon is in the cities. This is a phenomenon that often has as its negative effects the loss of cultural identity, social exclusion, disintegration or family destabilization. The evangelization of urban centers is therefore becoming increasingly urgent, but pastoral work must adapt to circumstances without forgetting the favelas, the suburbs, as well as rural realities. There is also an urgent need for renewed youth ministry. On the pedagogical front, the Church is asked to decisively promote bilingual intercultural education and to encourage an alliance of university networks specializing in the science of the Amazon and intercultural higher education for indigenous peoples.

► Protection of Creation and the Ecological Dimension
The ecological dimension is central in the relations of the Small Circles where it is reaffirmed that Creation is a masterpiece of God, that all creation is related. It must not be forgotten that “a true ecological conversion begins in the family and passes through a personal conversion, through the encounter with Jesus”. From this premise it is imperative to address the most practical issues such as raising temperatures or combating CO2 emissions. It encourages a more sober lifestyle and the protection of unique precious goods such as water, a fundamental human right, which, if privatized or contaminated, risks compromising the lives of entire communities. The value of medicinal plants should also be highlighted, as should the development of sustainable projects, through courses that lead to the knowledge of the secrets and sacredness of nature according to the Amazonian vision. Some circles propose to develop reforestation projects within training schools in agricultural techniques.

► Ecological sin and the promotion of an economy of solidarity
In this context, there is a double proposal; to include the theme of integral ecology in the directives of the Episcopal Conferences and to include in Moral Theology respect for our Common Home and ecological sins, also through a revision of the manuals and rituals of the Sacrament of Penance. Humanity - recognize some Synod Fathers - is moving towards the recognition of nature as a subject of law. “The utilitarian anthropocentric vision is obsolete and man can no longer subject the resources of nature to unlimited exploitation that endangers humanity itself.” It is necessary to contemplate the immense set of forms of life on the planet in relation to each other, also promoting a model of solidarity economy and establishing a ministry for the care of our Common Home, as proposed by the Portuguese Circle B.

► Synod on the Amazon and Communication
Finally, a number of reports have given space to the subject of the media. Catholic communication networks are encouraged to place the Amazon at the centre of their attention, to spread the good news and denounce all kinds of aggression against Mother Earth, and to announce the truth. Also proposed is the use of social networks for web radio, web TV and radio communication in order to disseminate the conclusions of this Synod. The hope is that the river of the Synod, with the strength of the “Amazonian river”, overflows with many gifts and ideas being reflected on by the fathers who have spoken in the Hall and that from this experience of walking together new paths for evangelization and integral ecology can spring up.

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Amazon Synod Press Conference: Ecological conversion and God’s dream
October 18th, 2019, 5:36 p.m.

The Holy Press Office hosts a press conference on Friday during which four Synod participants share some of the issues that have emerged in the small working groups.
By Vatican News

Synod participants have been examining a variety of issues in their so-called “circuli minores”. They shared the fruit of their discussions at Friday’s press conference. But, as Jesuit Fr. Giacomo Costa, Secretary of the Synod Information Commission, confirmed, the results of these discussions do not yet represent “the perspective of the Synod”. At this stage, he said, participants are still expressing their “personal thoughts and observations”, while the Synod continues to “consider everyone’s contribution”.

► Renewing consecrated life
Sr. Daniela Adriana Cannavina is Secretary General of CLAR in Colombia. She opened the press conference summarizing some of the proposals that emerged in her small working group. These include the need to renew and strengthen consecrated life in the Amazon Region. Religious men and women working in the region bring with them the “voice of experience with the indigenous people”, she said.

A Synod focusing on the Amazon has repercussions for the Universal Church, continued Sr. Daniela. Which is why we need to “go beyond our fears and concerns, and make changes”, responding to the realities of the Amazon Region as “mystics and prophets”, she said.

► Reconsidering structures
Sr. Daniela said her working group discussed how it is time for consecrated men and women to “reconsider their structures”, if they are to move forward with “new missionary zeal”. She said her group stressed the need for “dialogue and shared responsibility” among pastors and laypeople. Moving “outside our comfort zones” and providing a strengthening presence “starting from our charisms”, was also emphasized, she said.

Regarding the role of women, Sr. Daniela spoke of letting them take on certain pastoral ministries “in a responsible way”. Again she stressed “cooperation and co-responsibility” as a priority, clarifying this is not about “clericalism or power”. Religious life is about service, she said.

► An Amazon Rite
Archbishop Rino Fisichella is President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization. His intervention focused on the universality and complementarity of the Church. He described the Church as “one, but comprising many different people”. This is why it is important to respect all cultures and all peoples, he said, because “respect implies recognizing complementarity”.

No one culture can ever exhaust the richness of Christian reality, said Archbishop Fisichella. Every tradition and culture has something to say, “so that our common heritage can be interpreted”. In fact, we need to enhance certain elements of the Amazon cultures, he added.

In this respect, the Archbishop said his group proposed an “Amazon rite for the Amazon”. Indigenous people may live different cultures, he said, but they all have elements that communicate “the greatness of the Christian Faith”. An Amazon rite means making expressions of the Faith “visible and tangible”, according to the unique features of those cultures.

► Paths of the martyrs
Bishop Mario Antonio da Silva, of Roraima in Brazil, described this Synod as “an opportunity to get in touch with life, forests, water, animals, minerals, but especially communities that are filled with wisdom”, and that already may have answers to many of the challenges in the Amazon Region.

The Synod is an opportunity for the whole Church to recognize paths already developed by the martyrs, he said, to listen to “the Christian communities crying out with their problems”. He identified migration as one of the major challenges in his region, saying that often this is coupled with a “humanitarian crisis”.

His small group has been “following a process of discernment”, continued Bishop da Silva, and has come up with proposals “calling for more responsibility”.

► God’s dream
Mr. Mauricio Lopez is Executive Secretary of REPAM (Red Eclesial Pan Amazònica). He began his presentation referencing the “contemplative element in Ignatian spirituality”, and inviting everyone present in the Holy See Press Office to observe a moment of silence, in order “to contemplate our reality and God’s vision of this reality”.

We have to see reality for what it is, said Mr. Lopez. Even more importantly, we have to see reality as God does, to ask ourselves “what is God’s dream for reality?”. To do so we have to “look into our hearts and into the faces of others”, he said.

► The periphery and the center
This Synod for the Amazon is not the “periphery taking the place of the centre”, but the centre “being enlightened from the periphery”. Mr. Lopez said not to be afraid, and not to lose sight of “the importance of people, their future and their hopes”.

He concluded with a call for three kinds of conversion: pastoral, ecological, and synodal. God is inviting us to be part of His project, said Mr. Lopez, “to find meaning in life”.

► A question about ecological sins
At the press briefing last Friday, Archbishop Pedro Brito Guimarâes used the term “ecological sin”. The first question at this Friday’s press conference asked for examples.

Sr. Daniela began by defining an ecological sin as anything that “excludes our indigenous brothers and sisters from their territories”, or “endangers their lives” because of the irreversible destruction caused by mining and oil companies.

Mauricio Lopez identified it as the “structural sin of inequality”: rights violations, land grabbing, the destruction of our common home. He cited the inequality of a world where a small group of people possesses 90%of all resources.

Archbishop Fisichella said ecological sin expresses itself “when human beings become individualistic”, when they fail to realize the value of “nature, creation, life, and relationships”. Sin occurs, he said, when we “erect barriers against God” and Creation, which is “a manifestation of God”.

Bishop da Silva said that, rather than a list of sins, he preferred to call attention to “concrete and sincere conversion”. Greed, profit, excess, all these contain “the DNA of evil and sin”, he said. But instead of “ecological sin” he said we should call for “ecological conversion”.

► A question about funding
Bishop Mario Antonio da Silva responded to a question regarding funding from third parties that do not embrace the same values as the Catholic Church. He reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to defend life from birth to natural death. Specifying that all funding is used exclusively to “promote and develop life issues”, he listed “children, pregnant women, families, and the elderly” among its beneficiaries.

As Executive Secretary of REPAM, Mauricio Lopez clarified that his is “not an institution, but a network”, with no resources of its own. He called the Synod for the Amazon a “pro- life Synod that represents life itself”, as a process that seeks “to give meaning to life”.

The Prefect for the Dicastery for Communications, Dr. Paolo Ruffini, added that money given to the Catholic Church is destined for charitable works, and that this is preferable to it being used for un-Chistlike purposes.

► A question about the peripheries
Returning to the question of how the Synod for the Amazon can help bring the peripheries to the centre, Mauricio Lopez said the Amazon “can shake us and help us in positive way to be closer to God’s pro-life project”. This implies developing a more “global perspective”, he added. Scientific information tells us we must evaluate and take action in our present reality.

And the time, he said, “is now”.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 16 ― Monday, October 21st
(Days 14 & 15, Saturday & Sunday, were not workdays but rest days)

Here are the official Vatican News Agency Briefing Bulletins on the Amazon Synod, issued on Monday afternoon and evening to the Press. The worrisome or even dangerous points have been first of all highlighted in red. A commentary and critique of those points will follow shortly.

Amazon Synod: Presentation of the draft of the final document
October 21st, 2019, 2:40 p.m.

The 14th General Congregation of the Special Assembly of the Synod of Bishops for the Pan-Amazon Region took place on the morning of Monday, October 21st, in the presence of Pope Francis. One hundred eighty-four Synod Fathers were in the Hall for the session. The Synod concludes on Sunday, October 27th.
By Vatican News

Cardinal Claudio Hummes, the Relator General, presented the draft of the final document of the Synod for the Amazon to participants in the Synod Hall on Monday morning. The text, which gathers together the fruits of the interventions presented during the work, will now go to the small groups for discussion in a “collective manner.”

► The program for the coming days
Amendments will be inserted into the final document by the Relator General and the Special Secretaries, with the help of experts. Then the text will be revised by the editorial committee; and on Friday afternoon, the document will be read in the Hall on Friday afternoon, in the course of the 15th General Congregation. Finally, on Saturday afternoon, at the 16th General Congregation, the Synod Fathers will vote on the document.

► The homily of Archbishop Héctor Cabrejos Vidarte
Monday’s session began as usual with Mid-Morning prayer of the Liturgy of the Hours. The homily was delivered by Archbishop Héctor Cabrejos Vidarte of Trujillo, Mexico, who also serves as President of CELAM (the Latin American Episcopal Council). He invited those present to look to the example of Saint Francis and his “Canticle of the Creatures.” “For St. Francis,” Archbishop Trujillo said, “beauty is not a question of aesthetics, but of love, of fraternity at any cost, of grace at any cost.” The Saint of Assisi, he said, “embraces all creatures with a love and a devotion never seen, speaking to them of the Lord and exhorting them to praise Him. In this sense, Francis came to be the originator of the medieval sentiment for nature.”

► To know, to recognize, restore
Archbishop Trujillo said that three words – “to know, to recognize, to restore” – have marked “the rhythm” of the spiritual journey of the Poor Man of Assisi; that is, to know the Supreme Good, to recognize his benefits, and render praise to Him. If for Saint Francis, sin is an appropriation “only of the will but also of the good” that the Lord works in human beings; praise, on the contrary, means restitution. “Human beings,” Archbishop Cabrejos Vidarte said, “are unable to praise God as they should, because sin has wounded the filial relationship” with the Lord.

► God, the Father of all persons, and all things
It is for creatures, then, as St. Francis states in the “Canticle,” to carry out the work of mediation to bring praise to God. In fact, creatures can fill the void created by human beings, who are unable, on account of sin, to worthily offer praise. “Saint Francis discovers in God the place of Creation,” the Archbishop said, “and restores Creation to God, because he sees in Him not only the Father of all persons, but also the Father of all things.”

The morning session was closed by a special guest who focused on the theme of integral ecology, particularly in relation to climate change.

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Amazon Synod Briefing: Giving a voice and visibility to indigenous peoples
October 21st, 2019, 4:56 p.m.

Following the 14th General Congregation of the Synod for the Amazon on Monday morning, the Holy See Press Office hosts a press briefing during which four Synod participants respond to journalists’ question on a series of issues.
By Vatican News

The Prefect of the Dicastery for Communications, Dr. Paolo Ruffini, opened the briefing. He confirmed that Cardinal Claudio Hummes, Archbishop emeritus of Sào Paulo, had presented the draft text of what will be the final Synod document. The text contains details of what was discussed in both the General Congregations and small working groups. These issues include inculturation, and missionary and ecological conversion, among others. The main message to emerge, however, is that “the process of listening is not yet over.”

► Miss Marcivana Rodrigues Paiva
Misss Marcivana Rodrigues Paiva represents the Sateré-Mawé indigenous people in the state of Amazonas, Brazil. She mentioned the active role taken by women in her territory. She also said she came to the Synod as a witness for indigenous people living in urban contexts. 35,000 of them live in the city of Manaus alone. Indigenous people migrate to the cities where they face discrimination and often consider themselves “invisible,” she said.

► Bishop Domenico Pompili
Bishop Domenico Pompili comes from Rieti, Italy. A devastating earthquake that struck his diocese in August 2016 left over 250 people dead and thousands homeless. Reconstruction is still far from complete. The Amazon is “a metaphor” for the wounded Earth, he said, and he criticized the “excessive attention given to economic issues that privilege big cities over rural areas.”

► Fr. Dario Bossi, M.C.C.J.
Fr. Dario Bossi, M.C.C.J. is Superior General of the Comboni Missionaries in Brazil and has spent the past 15 years in the country. He addressed the impact of mineral extraction and the damage caused by multinational companies. His region is located “at the heart of the Amazon,” he said. It includes the “largest open-air mine for the extraction of iron,” an area that covers 900 kilometers (560 miles) and crosses 100 communities.

Deforestation is a problem, he said, because companies use the wood to produce fuel that causes pollution. He spoke of the effect of 30 years of toxic waste on the population, and of how mercury in the water affects the children.

Fr. Bossi said that an ecumenical network collaborates with the Brazilian Bishops’ Conference, demonstrating their awareness and commitment “to finding a solution.”

► Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, O.P.
Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, O.P., Archbishop of Vienna and President of the Austrian Bishops’ Conference, addressed journalists at the briefing, saying he had spent two weeks in the Amazon “listening to their experiences.” At the Synod, he said he learned “we have nothing to teach the Amazon,” but that we need to understand what our contribution can be. The Synod provides an opportunity to consider those who are “forgotten by world politics,” he said, and to “give voice” to those in the Amazon Region whose lives are threatened.

Proposals at the Synod for a permanent diaconate, he said, are aimed at “assisting pastoral ministry in this huge territory.” Referring to the 180 permanent deacons who serve in his own Archdiocese of Vienna, the Cardinal said he thought the permanent diaconate was “useful and significant for the life of the Church.”

► A question about mining
Fr. Dario Bossi responded to a question about the effects of extractivism, the process of mining natural resources for exportation. There is nothing sustainable in this process, he confirmed. There is “no intergenerational justice.” Fr. Bossi gave the example of his own community that had stood up to this “violence” and called for reparation. They began by building a new settlement far from the polluted areas, he said, a sign that “hope can be found with the Amazon communities themselves.”

► A question about impressions
Cardinal Christoph Schönborn was asked what he is learning from this Synod and what he will take back with him to Vienna. He responded saying he has been struck by “the courage of the indigenous people who have lived under threat for 500 years.” We must be “alert and attentive to what it means for these people to be under pressure, under danger of extinction for centuries,” he said. While the Church has used her voice to defend them in the past, it has not been enough, he added. We need to be attentive “to those who have no voice,” he concluded.

► A question about rights
Miss Marcivana Rodrigues Paiva returned to the issue of urbanization saying that being “invisible” in big cities means indigenous people have no rights. Indigenous pastoral ministry plays an important role in giving people living in urban areas “support and visibility,” she said. Their cultural identity is tied to their territory, she added. They have no identity without their land.

► A question about permanent deacons
Cardinal Schönborn was asked a follow-up question regarding the issue of permanent deacons. He responded by suggesting that more priests should be ready to serve in the Amazon. “Europe has an abundance of clergy,” he said, but “justice asks us to do something.” The Synod discussed the question of “vocational solidarity,” said the Cardinal, and agreed that the “whole Church is co-responsible for the Amazon.”

► A question about development
The last question was put to Miss Marcivana Rodrigues Paiva and concerned the kind of development her people hope for. Her people’s spirituality is focused on the Earth “from which we come,” she said. “Which is why we have such a strong relationship with the Earth.” Our ancestors have been caring for the Earth for thousands of years, concluded Miss Marcivana Rodrigues Paiva. That is why “the cry coming from the Amazon is to take care of Mother Earth,” she said.

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Prefect for Communication comments on theft of statues from Rome church
October 21st, 2019, 5:02 p.m.

At the conclusion of a press briefing in the Vatican on Monday, the Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, Dr. Paolo Ruffini, says the theft of indigenous statues is a contradiction to the spirit of dialogue.
By Vatican News

Early on Monday morning, unidentified individuals entered the Church of St. Mary in Traspontina, near the Vatican.

They removed a group of statuettes from a side chapel, and threw them in the Tiber River nearby, posting a video of the gesture on social media.

The statuettes, which depict pregnant indigenous women, were used in an October 4th ceremony in the Vatican at the beginning of the Synod of Bishops for the Amazon Region.

► ‘Theft that speaks for itself’
Dr. Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for Communication, responded to a journalist’s question at the Monday press briefing for the Synod, in the Holy See Press Office.

“We have already repeated several times here that those statues represented life, fertility, Mother Earth. It was a gesture – I believe – that contradicts the spirit of dialogue that should always inspire us. I don’t know what else to say except that it was a theft, and perhaps that speaks for itself.”

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 17 ― Tuesday, October 22nd

Here are the official Vatican News Agency Briefing Bulletins on the Amazon Synod, issued on Tuesday afternoon and evening to the Press. The worrisome or even dangerous points have been first of all highlighted in red. A commentary and critique of those points will follow shortly.

Fr. Antonio Spadaro, SJ: Key themes from the Synod
October 22nd, 2019, 12:01 p.m.

In an interview with Vatican News, conducted via email, the Editor-in-Chief of the Jesuit journal La Civiltà Cattolica, Fr. Antonio Spadaro, S.J., highlights some of the key themes of the Synod for the Amazon, and discusses the need for an “indigenous” Church that is inculturated in native cultures.

VATICAN NEWS: What are some of the key themes considered at the Synod for the Amazon that have significance for the whole world?

FR. ANTONIO SPADARO: The first key theme is Prophecy. Today the Church has an extraordinary need for prophecy in the face of the great challenges of the present, and to discern what future we want to build. So the first theme is the future of the Church, considering that the seeds of the future are now more in the peripheries than in the center. The periphery speaks from the center with the awareness that its experience is heard as a prophetic voice for the whole Church. And, precisely for this reason, it is judged by some as disturbing.

The second key theme is that the Synod points straight toward a land where gigantic contradictions of a political, economic, and ecological character are concentrated. A land which is not a national state, where a group of people is persecuted and threatened by many forms of violence. But also a group of people who are bearers of an enormous wealth of languages, cultures, rites, ancestral traditions.

The third key theme is Faith. The interventions in the Aula and in the small groups are painting a large fresco in which everything is interconnected: Faith and history, hope and geography, charity and politics. Nothing is out of sight or beyond the commitment that comes from the impulse of Faith. The theological themes in the Synod Hall are closely intertwined with the life of the people, geopolitical tensions, and care of the “common home.” And, precisely for this reason, it is judged by some as disturbing. This is why the preemptive attacks aimed at the Synod, dressed up as a fundamentalist religiosity, come from groups that protect political-economic interests. But this is also why from the mature experience of this Synod it will be possible to point out “new paths” for the universal Church.

The fourth key theme is the Church built upon the sacraments and ministries. The Synodal fathers are aware of how difficult it is for communities to regularly celebrate the Eucharist due to a lack of priests. There was clear talk of the right of the faithful not to remain in a “fast” from the Eucharist; and of the obligation of the pastors to provide bread. But a broader and more mature vision of the Church, finally alienated from clericalism, aware of the need to imagine new ecclesial ministries, for women as well, was also expressed. It is clear from the testimonies how much the Church of the Pan-Amazon region owes its life to women. It is also understood how the laity already actually have the task of teaching and supporting the ecclesial communities.

VATICAN NEWS: There has been a great deal of discussion about inculturation. Especially in light of the long Jesuit tradition in this area, can you offer some thoughts as to how the Church can have an “Amazonian face,” while remaining faithful to the Catholic tradition?

FR. ANTONIO SPADARO: We must distinguish between a Church which considers indigenous people as an object of pastoral care, and an “indigenous” Church, which considers indigenous people as protagonists of its own experience of Faith. We must definitely aim for an indigenous Church. In the context of their culture, identity, history, and spirituality, an indigenous Church can be born with its pastors and ordained ministers, always united in total communion with the universal Catholic Church, but inculturated in the indigenous cultures. The liturgy must respond to the culture of the people so that it may be the “culmen et fons,” the summit and also the source of the Christian life (cf. Sacrosantum Concilium, §10) and so that it may be linked to the sufferings and joys of the people.

The question of rites is an ancient one. The question of the Chinese rites at the time of Matteo Ricci and the question of the celebration in the Amazon are connected. We must be careful not to make the mistakes of the past. I was struck by the fact that the first intention of the prayer of the faithful in the Mass for the inauguration of the Synod for the Amazon was in Chinese. An authentically Catholic response must be given to the request of the Amazon communities to adapt the liturgy by valuing the original cosmo-vision, traditions, symbols, and rites that include transcendent, community and ecological dimensions.

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Amazon Synod Briefing: Networking and co-responsibility
October 22nd, 2019, 4:10 p.m.

While the Synod of Bishops for the Amazon continues discussions on the draft of the final document, four Synod participants share their insights and experiences at a press briefing in the Holy See Press Office on Tuesday afternoon.
By Vatican News

Tuesday is the last day for discussions within the small working groups. The Secretary of the Synod Information Commission, Jesuit Fr. Giacomo Costa, said participants are “still listening and contributing.” The results will be handed over to those responsible for drafting the final document, and the Synod will vote on it on Saturday.

► Miss Judite da Rocha
Miss Judite da Rocha was the first to make her presentation. She is National Coordinator of the Movement for Victims affected by dams in Brazil. She highlighted the threats posed by hydroelectric power stations to fishermen and people living alongside rivers.

Miss da Rocha gave examples of families left homeless, communities displaced, traditions and cultures destroyed. She spoke of the effect on women in the form of domestic violence and sexual harassment. We need to develop other ways to produce energy and power, she said.

► Archbishop Héctor Miguel Cabrejos Vidarte, O.F.M.
Archbishop Héctor Miguel Cabrejos Vidarte, O.F.M., of Trujillo, is President of the Peruvian Bishops’ Conference and CELAM, the Latin American Episcopal Conference. He told journalists the Synod is drawing attention to both Nature and Humanity.

Nature is biodiversity and ecology, said the Archbishop, and it is not a coincidence the Synod is dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, who expressed his love for nature so eloquently. Human beings must return to enjoying a respectful relationship with nature, he said: respect for the Earth “leads to union with God”.

According to Archbishop Cabrejos Vidarte, we need to “delve deeper and be more daring” when it comes to discussing existential topics and the centrality of the human person. Stressing the importance of “intercultural relationships,” he confirmed that issues affecting the nine countries of the Amazon “go beyond national borders”.

► Bishop Karel Martinus Choennie
Bishop Karel Martinus Choennie of Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname, then gave his testimony. 92% of his country is still green forest, he said, but “if global warming continues” it will spell disaster for the Amazon. “Climate change affects us all,” said Bishop Choennie, giving the example of the “high incidence of hurricanes in the Caribbean”.

“Europe, America, China, and Japan must change lifestyles,” he warned, otherwise “we are on the path to self-destruction.” We need a new economy of “solidarity,” said the Bishop, because the present economy “kills and is unjust to the next generation.” He denounced what he called a lack of creativity and “political stagnation,” and concluded by urging those in power to find “real solutions”.

► Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, O.F.M. Cap.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, O.F.M. Cap., is Archbishop of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He is at the Synod for the Amazon representing Africa and, specifically, the Congo Basin, he said. The Cardinal described similarities between the Amazon Region and the Congo Basin, saying they are both “endangered because of irresponsible exploitation,” and that people in both areas “risk being destroyed”.

The keywords of his presentation were “co-responsibility” and “accountability.” He too called for world leaders to be more responsible. While the Synod is “giving hope to humanity,” said Cardinal Besungu, as a Church “we must dare”.

► A question about networking
Journalists present in the Holy See Press Office asked questions relating to different forms of networking, both inside and outside the Church.

Cardinal Besungu described coordinating efforts for the Congo Basin, and extending these to the whole of the Equatorial forest, literally “going beyond borders”.

Archbishop Cabrejos Vidarte spoke of already looking forward to “what happens next” and deciding how to apply the conclusions of this Synod. He expressed the desire to create a “lively and active” network in the form of an “ecclesial body” that would unite all the countries of the Amazon Region.

Miss da Rocha described the effects of multinational companies exploiting natural resources: mental health issues, depression, even suicide. People are told to “leave or die,” she said, and the socio-cultural impact inflicts pain and suffering.

► A question about a prophetic voice
Asked how the Church can speak with a more “prophetic voice,” Bishop Choennie suggested that “education is the answer.” He said there is “no realization of the urgency of the problem” and people are not willing to sacrifice their lifestyles.

The Bishop said there is a “contradiction” between wanting to save the forests, without wanting to change our lifestyles, including eating less meat.

Archbishop Cabrejos Vidarte stressed the need to focus on the commitment “to care for our common home.” He reiterated there is “a correlation between the Amazon and climate change,” and said this will be discussed at COP 25, the UN Climate Change Conference, scheduled to take place in December in Chile.

► A question about initiatives
In terms of proposals and initiatives, Miss Judite da Rocha recalled how the indigenous people of the Amazon have a “history of survival and resistance.” Governments, the Church, and society must work together, remembering “what already works and what already exists,” she said.

In this regard, Cardinal Besungu shared his experience in the DRC. The Church’s work with NGO’s (no-profit organizations) and promotion of advocacy activities, led to the approval of a law in the United States under the Obama Administration, concerning the exploitation of mines in the Congo, he said. Still, the interests of large corporations make it difficult to apply legal decisions.

Which is why we need a “global approach,” and to show greater co-responsibility, said the Cardinal.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 18 ― Wednesday, October 23rd

Here are the official Vatican News Agency Briefing Bulletins on the Amazon Synod, issued on Wednesday afternoon and evening to the Press. The worrisome or even dangerous points have been first of all highlighted in red. A commentary and critique of those points will follow shortly.

Amazon Synod: Dorothy Stang, for the betterment of this world
October 23rd, 2019, 4:51 p.m.

The Synod on the Amazon has shed light on some of the martyrs who gave their life for the protection of the people of the Amazon. Among these is Sister Dorothy Stang, who was killed in Parà in Brasil in 2005.

“This is an important time for Sister Dorothy Stang” says Sister Sheila Kinsey, Executive Co-Secretary of the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation commission of the International Union of Superior Generals. She says Sister Dorothy’s life has much to teach us. “The way she lived and the legacy she continues to have in areas” such as in reaching out to the poor or in dealing with issues relating to landlessness are all inspirational, she says.

Sister Sherila continues saying that the “two bookends” for Pope Francis are the Beatitudes and Matthew 25. Sister Dorothy “was a person who lived” both of these, she says. We are called to live a life of holiness, “promoting the kingdom of God” and this is a time in which we look up to these martyrs for inspiration, to those who have given their lives for the betterment of the people, she says.

“Dorothy is giving us that example,” continues Sister Sheila, “to reach across the divide, to be at one with one another, to listen to one another, the north and the south, those who are indigenous, those who are religious, those who are lay, those who are in the highest realms of the hierarchy.”

Sister Sheila believes that this Synod is “only the beginning” and that we need to be able to go forward together as Church as we speak to the world, to make a difference, to have a new face. “A face that shows the Amazon,” she explains, “that shows indigenous people.”

“Our time is now,” concludes Sister Sheila, to help “make a difference for the betterment of this world.”

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Amazon Synod Briefing: Role of women, inculturation, synodality
October 23rd, 2019, 5:34 p.m.

The role of women; inculturation; and synodality were some of the key topics highlighted at Wednesdays’ press briefing for the Synod on the Amazon.
By Vatican News

At the beginning of the briefing, the Prefect for the Dicastery for Communication, Dr. Paolo Ruffini briefly reviewed the process for producing the Synod’s final document. Jesuit Father Giacomo Costa noted that the final document will be entrusted to the Holy Father, who will provide guidance for the Church going forward. Father Costa emphasized the importance, in the synodal process, of “listening deeply,” noting that the final document is a fruit of the process, but not its final goal.

► Sister Roselei Bertoldo, I.C.M.
The first guest at today’s briefing, Sister Roselei Bertoldo of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, spoke about the issue of trafficking, especially of girls and women. Often an “invisible crime,” trafficking can involve not only sexual exploitation, but also domestic enslavement and child labor. She said the Church must help raise awareness about the issue, and continue working on strategies of prevention.

► Bishop Ricardo Ernesto Centellas Guzmán
The President of the Episcopal Conference of Bolivia, Bishop Ricardo Ernesto Centellas Guzmán said the Church must change its mentality with regard to the role of women. Women have a very strong presence in the Church, but their participation in decision-making is “almost invisible.” He said change must come primarily at the community, rather than the universal level.

► Bishop Zenildo Luiz Pereira da Silva, C.SS.R.
Bishop Zenildo Luiz Pereira da Silva, a Brazilian Bishop, said the Church must find new ways of thinking, in dialogue with the contemporary world. The synodal path, he said, involves not simply proposing answers, but pointing to new paths, reconsidering what has been done in the past.

► Jesuit Bishop Gilberto Alfredo Vizcarra Mori, S.J.
Jesuit Bishop Gilberto Alfredo Vizcarra Mori, S.J., who has served as a missionary and is now Vicar Apostolic of Jaén en Peru o San Francisco Javier, spoke of the importance of being close to, and even a part of, indigenous societies. This involves many sacrifices, including giving up our preconceived mindsets. He said living with indigenous peoples has helped him realize how they feel connected to the whole of creation. This is something we, who sometimes see ourselves as “masters” of creation, can learn from indigenous peoples.

► Cardinal Oswald Gracias
Finally, Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay, spoke said he was surprised to be called to be part of the Synod. He said that he has learned that “the Amazon” is India; that is, the issues facing Amazonia are universal. He mentioned the violence committed against nature; the injustice toward indigenous peoples; and the lack of pastoral care as three particular areas of concern. Cardinal Gracias also said he is very impressed with the passionate concern the Bishops of Amazonia have for their people.

► A question about the role of women in the Church
Bishop Ricardo Centellas was asked if now is the “right time” for structural changes in the Church with regard to the role of women. He said the Church does not prohibit active and effect participation by women, but highlighted again the lack of women in decision making role; and this, he said, must change. He emphasized that small changes must be made where they can.

► A question about the contributions that women can offer
In answer to a further question on how women are already offering their unique contributions to the Church, Bishop Centellas said that men and women have different points of view, and approach things from different perspectives. Nonetheless, he said, those visions and approaches, though different, are complementary.

The question of the role of women in liturgy, said Bishop da Silva is only one part of the question. He said a large part of the pastoral activity of the Church is inspired by the intuition of women. He said we should remember the strong contribution of women in Catholic communities.

Sister Roselei Bertoldo said that the presence of women in the communities is undeniable. “We are church, and we do church,” she said. The fact that women have been called to the synod, and that they have a voice there, is significant. Women, said Sister Bertoldo, claim and want to become protagonists in the Church.

Finally, Cardinal Gracias noted that neither Church law nor theology prohibit women from participating in active ways in the Church. Apart from a few ritual actions ― like hearing Confession, saying Mass, and giving Confirmation ― women are able to do just about anything in the Church. He said that despite the decentralization urged by Pope Francis, Bishops are not using the opportunities they have to involve women more.

► A question about human trafficking
Sister Bertoldo said that Pope Francis, from the beginning of his pontificate, has emphasized the need to respond to the scourge of human trafficking. She highlighted some of the fruits of the synodal process in this regard, such as encouraging local churches to raise awareness about the issues; deal with identified cases; and work on prevention, especially in ecclesial contexts.

► A question on synodality
One reporter, noting appeals for the whole Church to have an “Amazonian face,” asked if, given the emphasis on synodality, there had been any proposals to hear from people from other parts of the Church. Cardinal Gracias said that Pope Francis has given the Church the theology of synodality, and put great emphasis on it, and that during the Synod for the Amazon, the Church has had a true experience of it.

Dr. Ruffini pointed out that the Pope had spoken about synodality during the day’s General Audience. Pope Francis explained how, at the Synod on Jerusalem, the Apostles dealt with theological issues by discussing them and finding a common path. This, he said, “sheds light” on how to address differences, and how to resolve conflict through dialogue.

Bishop Vizcarra added that the experience of the early Church was reflected in the experience of being Church in the Amazon. “The Holy Spirit is speaking to us,” he said, is extending an invitation to live as Christians, to welcome the Holy Spirit, and to live fully in being Christians in the context of ecology. He said that for him, the Synod is a Synod of listening.

► A question about media coverage
A final question was asked about the reactions to media coverage of the synod, and the “vastly different interpretations” about what is happening in the synod.

Bishop da Silva said that there is a certain amount of resistance to the idea of synodality. When the Church starts “a synodal pathway,” he said, it’s giving a significant sign. The Church, he said, is not going down an obscure path, but is a light in our times. And he said, the role of the media, even when critical, is constructive.

AMAZON UPDATE, DAY 19 ― Thursday, October 24th

Here are the official Vatican News Agency Briefing Bulletins on the Amazon Synod, issued on Thursday afternoon and evening to the Press. The worrisome or even dangerous points have been first of all highlighted in red. A commentary and critique of those points will follow shortly.

Amazon Synod Briefing: an Amazonian rite and indigenous spirituality
October 24th, 2019, 4:39 p.m.

While the Synod of Bishops for the Amazon continues discussions of the draft of the final document that will be voted on this Saturday, five Synod participants share their impressions and experiences at a press briefing in the Holy See Press Office.
By Vatican News

The five presentations provided journalists and media professionals with an opportunity to hear impressions of the Synod, from the inside out.

► Sister Mariluce dos Santos Mesquita, FMA
Sister Mariluce dos Santos Mesquita, FMA, of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, is a religious belonging to the Barassana ethnic community in Brazil. She comes from the “most indigenous of all dioceses in Amazonia,” she said.

► Fr. Eleazar Lòpez Hernández
Father Eleazar Lòpez Hernández is an expert in indigenous theology, and a member of the Zapoteca people in Mexico. He described the Synod as “the realization of a dream.” It represents a “new kind of relationship,” he said, based on encounter. Speaking in terms of his understanding of indigenous culture, Fr. Hernández said his people “cannot separate God and life”: theology, science, and life are all interrelated for them, he said.

► Mr. Delio Siticonatzi Camaiteri
Mr. Delio Siticonatzi Camaiteri is a member of the Ashaninca indigenous people in Peru. He said he came to the Synod to reaffirm “the importance of defending the Earth where we live.” He said the Synod experience is a source of hope for indigenous people that has allowed them to speak up for their rights. When they do so in other circumstance, said Mr. Camaiteri, “we are murdered.” Instead, he added, this Synod “opens a space for dialogue and encounter” to protect both the Amazon and whole world.

► Archbishop Alberto Taveira Correa
Archbishop Alberto Taveira Correa heads the archdiocese of Belém do Pará in Brazil, which includes “river communities,” and cities that experience “all the challenges of a metropolis.” He said he came to the Synod in order “to seek answers and to give value to all indigenous realities of the Amazon Region.” In his ten years as Archbishop, he said he could testify to the “growth in vocations” in his own, and in nearby dioceses.

► Cardinal Beniamino Stella
Cardinal Beniamino Stella is Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy. When he was Apostolic Nuncio to Colombia, he had many opportunities to visit the territories of the Amazon Region. He said he saw for himself the “problems of communications and distance.” Which is why the Cardinal said he so admires “bishops with a missionary heart,” those he called “heroic pastors,” and their “commitment to their territory.” This Synod has allowed him to “relive the experiences and memories of Latin America,” he said.

► A question about an Amazonian rite
The first question was addressed to Cardinal Stella and regarded the proposal to adopt an “Amazonian rite.” The Cardinal responded saying it was natural for people to want to communicate through their “local language and symbols, colours, and stories”.

He recalled how the bishops of the Amazon Region are dealing with “diversified realities” that are multi-ethnic and multi-linguistic. Any rite expresses the history and the spirituality of a people, he said.

Fr. Eleazar Lòpez Hernández confirmed that the Churches of Latin America need to express their Faith according to their traditions. This is what the proposal for an Amazonian rite is based on, he said. We need to generate something that is “in tune with local traditions,” added Fr. Hernández. “Our people have their own religious experiences that give meaning to their lives.” We cannot focus on only one culture or follow a single pathway, he explained.

Sister Mariluce dos Santos Mesquita added that, as indigenous people, they are here “to say we have our own spirituality.” “We already celebrate rites and live with our cultural values and traditions,” she said. “We are the result of evangelization, but we interact and live our celebrations bringing our symbols and Jesus’ message,” said Sister Mariluce. “We need to delve deeper into our spirituality and the Word of God,” through sharing, fraternity, and gestures of solidarity, she said.

Mr. Delio Siticonatzi Camaiteri intervened saying the indigenous people of the Amazon Region have their own “world view,” which encompasses nature, and which “brings us closer to God.” As indigenous people, “we experience harmony with all living beings,” he said. “We have our own rituals, but they are centered on Jesus Christ. There is nothing else,” he concluded.

► A question about expectations
Archbishop Correa was asked whether he was afraid of “disappointing” peoples’ expectations regarding the outcome of this Synod. He responded saying the Synod Fathers have no “wish list.” “We are walking and sharing together,” in an “enriching dialogue,” he said. Quoting Pope Francis, the Archbishop added: “Without the Holy Spirit, there is no Synod”.

► A question about Mary
Responding to a question about Marian devotion in the Amazon Region, Father Eleazar Lòpez Hernández explained how, in the indigenous ancestral tradition, the “relationship with God includes a feminine element.” Strengthening and promoting life “includes male and female components,” he said. God is mercy, and part of mercy is “the feminine element of tenderness.” That is why Mary plays an important role in Latin America, said Fr. Hernández. Still, “we need to recover popular religiosity,” he said.

“Maternity, the family, tenderness, these are all associated with Mary,” added Archbishop Correa.

► A question about celibacy
Cardinal Stella answered a question about celibacy, confirming the need for a solid priestly formation, and paying special attention to “human characteristics” before deciding to ordain someone. The Catholic Church is the “only institution that preaches commitment for life,” said the Cardinal. This is a great challenge, he said. Celibacy is “a gift” that must be accepted “in awareness, with personal discipline, cultivating spirituality, and growing in prayer.” In this way, celibacy has meaning and impact, and becomes a reality, he added. Celibacy is “something beautiful,” concluded the Cardinal, “it is a gift from God, to be preserved as a treasure in clay vessels”.

► A question about funding
Finally, in response to a question regarding the funding of the Synod, the Prefect of the Dicastery for Communications, Dr. Paolo Ruffini, stated that the Synod of Bishops is “an ecclesial event,” and is funded exclusively “by the Holy See.”

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ANOTHER BULLETIN SHOULD BE ISSUED BY THE VATICAN SHORTLY WITH FURTHER UPDATES