Martinelli: Instrumentum Laboris provides clear direction for the Synodal Assembly

By Office of Communications of the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia

“Synodality can be better understood as a preparation for the future,” says Bishop Paolo Martinelli, in a 16th July interview conducted by the Office of Communications of the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia, following the publication of the Instrumentum laboris (IL). 

In the interview, the Apostolic Vicar hails the IL as a “clear and simple” document that gives “clear direction” for the discussions that will take place at the General Assembly in October. 

Interview with Bishop Paolo Martinelli, O.F.M. Cap.

Q. What is your first reaction to the Instrumentum Laboris?

My first reaction is that the document is very clear and simple. It gives a very clear path for the discussion in October. Last year the document had too many themes. Now many of the themes are given to the different commissions to deepen the thought. The New Instrumentum Laboris is well-done, and it is more focusing on the theme of synodality.

Q. What are the striking factors you point out in this document? 

Finally, after many discussions, we have a clearer definition for Synodality. Though Synod is not a new term for the Church. There are different aspects that will be discussed this October as per the document. Some of the themes that will be discussed are Unity which is for us the harmony of differences, the reciprocity between man and woman - sisters and brothers, to understand the difference and the close relationship between charisms and ministry. We will discuss on the theme of Christian initiation, identity and role of priest among the people of God, what is Ecclesial discernment of the will of God, decision making in the life of the Church and so on. I am very happy to receive this document which gives a clear direction for our discussions in October.

Q. Bishop, in view of this document, how do you see the October assembly of the Synod? 

The synodal assembly itself is very important in the life of the church. It is a great Ecclesial event to be with the Holy Father and the many Bishops from around the world. In this Synodal Assembly, it is not only the bishops but there are also priests, religious sisters and laity with the right to vote on the matters of discussion. It is great because we share the wonderful experience from around the world, understand the life of the Church from different cultures, nations and we learn a lot. This itself is a great richness of the synod. 

Again, we have the themes given in the Instrumentum Laboris to guide our discussion. We must keep in mind that the whole people of God were asked to participate through the diocesan and continental process. There is a great enthusiasm among the faithful about this synod in our vicariate. 

Q. How do you see the future of the Church with this Synodal Assembly? 

Synodality can be better understood as a preparation for the future. Synodal Church is not a new Church but is the same Church that is going to deepen the truth of its identity. Synodality is always connected with the word ‘Communion’. Synodal way is to live the esteem of communion, which is at the middle of the ecclesiology in the Second Vatican Council. This theme well connects the Church in the Gulf. We are a Church of migrants, with so many nationalities, languages, cultures and rites. But what is to be a Church here among the Muslims? To me, first and foremost, to be a Church here means to be witness of Christ. Unity of the people of God in the diversity is the best witness. Unity for us is the harmony of the differences. Therefore, Synodality is directing towards the prophetic hope towards this reality. 

Q. What is your message to the faithful in your Vicariate about this document and the Synodal Assembly?  

First of all, I invite all our faithful to accompany the synod and the whole process with prayer. That is the most important part for every faithful, accompanying the Synodal Assembly with their prayer. I invite the faithful to pray that we may be open to the action of the Holy Spirit. In fact, He is in the Church as the soul is in the body. Secondly, I would ask all to read the Instrumentum Laboris to understand where we have come after this long process and the path of the Church in this synodal journey.

Also, follow the Synod assembly through media publications from the Vatican. I will also, like last year, write some reflections to keep in touch with my people during the assembly. 

Most importantly, live more and more the spirit of the synodal process, that is to walk together. Nowhere else can we better experience ‘walking together’ than in our Church in the Gulf with such a plurality. Let’s walk together, with only one identity that we are baptised. Try to reach out to those who have distanced themselves from the Church, those who feel left out, those who feel lesser, unwanted, or unheard. Our duty, first and foremost, is to make everyone feel that in the Church no one is left out, everyone is needed, everyone is important.  Church is the home for everyone, and in this home, all are welcome, all journey together. 

Finally, don’t forget to pray for your Bishop who is also a member of the Synodal Assembly in Rome.

Thank you, Monsignor, for your time and wish you very fruitful time in the Synod in October.