As the Catholic Church prepares for the second session of the Synod on Synodality, Pope Francis emphasized a crucial point on Tuesday: before the Church can fulfill its mission as entrusted by Jesus Christ, it must first confront its past failures and seek forgiveness.
This poignant reminder came during a penitential liturgy at St. Peter’s Basilica, attended by over 500 people.
In his address, the Holy Father remarked, “Sin is always a wound in relationships; it impacts our connection with God as well as with our fellow human beings.”
He questioned how the Church could expect to carry out its mission credibly if it fails to acknowledge and address its wrongdoings.
“How can we be credible in mission if we do not recognize and acknowledge our mistakes and bend down to heal the wounds we have caused by our sins?” he asked.
Shared Confessions and Testimonies
The evening’s penitential celebration featured confessions and testimonies from bishops, religious leaders, and laypeople who have been affected by various sins, including those against minors, migrants, and victims of war, poverty, and environmental degradation.
Each of the ten confessions read aloud was followed by a prayerful petition for forgiveness, underscoring the collective need for healing.
Seeking Forgiveness for Sins Against Peace
Cardinal Oswald Gracias from Bombay, India, began the confessions by expressing his remorse.
“I ask forgiveness from God the Father, feeling shame for the lack of courage necessary to seek peace among peoples and nations,” he shared.
He highlighted the importance of embracing dialogue over conflict, stating, “To make peace, it takes courage. Say ‘yes’ to the encounter and ‘no’ to the clash; ‘yes’ to agreements and ‘no’ to provocations.”
Sister Dima Fayad also shared her perspective on the sins of war she has witnessed in Syria.
“War often brings out the worst in us, revealing selfishness and violence,” she noted.
Yet, she also pointed out that such times can foster resilience and solidarity.
Addressing the Sins of Abuse
Laurence, a South African layman, bravely spoke of his childhood experience with sexual abuse.
He criticized the Church’s lack of transparency and accountability, stating that it has severely damaged the trust survivors had in the institution.
“For decades, accusations were ignored or handled internally, which has made the healing journey for survivors even harder,” he said.
Cardinal Sean O’Malley from Boston added his own plea for forgiveness, reflecting on the grave impact of sexual abuse on minors and vulnerable individuals.
“How much shame and pain I feel when considering these abuses, which have stolen the innocence of those who are weak and helpless,” he lamented.
The Church’s Role in the Lives of Migrants
Sara Vatteroni, from La Fondazione Migrantes in Tuscany, stood alongside Solange, a migrant from the Ivory Coast, as they shared their experiences before Pope Francis.
“The Mediterranean is the most dangerous migration route in the world, with an average of six people losing their lives daily,” she remarked.
“We seem like mere spectators, waiting on the shore for those who survive.”
Acknowledging Sins Against Creation
Cardinal Michael Czerny, who leads the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, expressed regret for the harm done to the environment and Indigenous populations.
“I ask forgiveness for transforming creation from a garden into a desert,” he said.
He acknowledged the need to recognize the rights and dignity of every person, especially Indigenous peoples, while denouncing the complicity in systems of slavery and colonialism.
Forgiving Sins Against Women and Families
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, head of the Dicastery for the Laity, the Family, and Life, sought forgiveness on behalf of the Church for failing to protect the dignity of women.
“I apologize for the times we have judged and condemned the frailties of families and for not supporting the growth and talents of younger generations,” he stated.
Confronting Poverty and Injustice
Cardinal Cristóbal López Romero of Rabat, Morocco, conveyed his shame for the Church’s failure to stand by the poor, particularly noting that some clerics adorn themselves with luxuries while neglecting the needy.
“I ask for forgiveness for our inertia in becoming a poor Church for the poor,” he said.
Acknowledging Doctrinal Failures
Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, head of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, confessed to the misuse of doctrine that has justified inhumane treatment.
He emphasized the need for pastors to present the Gospel as a living source of renewal rather than a weapon of exclusion.
Recognizing the Need for Inclusivity
In his reflection, Cardinal Christoph Schönborn of Vienna lamented the barriers that hinder building a truly synodal Church.
“I ask forgiveness for the times we have turned authority into power, suppressing diversity and making it difficult for our brothers and sisters to participate in the Church’s mission,” he said.
Looking Ahead
With the second session of the global discernment phase of the Synod of Synodality set to commence on Wednesday, October 2, the Church is taking significant steps toward reflection, healing, and renewal.
The Mass with Pope Francis marks the beginning of this important journey, paving the way for a more inclusive and compassionate Church.
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