A synodal church refers to a particular style that characterizes the life and mission of the Catholic Church, expressing its nature as the People of God journeying together and gathering in assembly. It is a way of living and working that involves the active participation of all members of the Church, including the laity, consecrated, and ordained, in the evangelizing mission of the Church. This approach emphasizes communion, participation, and mission, and it is not just about ecclesial meetings and Bishops assemblies, but rather the specific way of being and operating of the Church.
A synod, on the other hand, is an assembly of Church leaders who address and make recommendations regarding a situation or a matter of great importance. It is not a deliberative body with decision-making powers, but rather a structured conversation surrounding an issue, with the goal of making recommendations for the final decision-maker. Synods can take place at different levels, such as a synod of priests and lay people in a diocese to advise the bishop, or a synod of bishops to advise the pope.
In summary, a synodal church embodies the active participation of all members of the Church in its mission, while a synod is an assembly of Church leaders that engages in structured conversations to make recommendations on important matters. Both concepts are integral to the functioning and mission of the Catholic Church.
