Journeying Together in Faith: Advancing Synodality in the Church in India

Bangalore, November 2024 – The Peyton Institute for Families hosted a private consultation titled “Journeying Together in Faith: Advancing Synodality in the Church in India” on 19 November 2024, gathering clergy, religious leaders, and lay participants for a day of prayerful reflection, dialogue, and shared vision. Facilitated by Dr. James Ponniah, Head of the Department of Christian Studies in the University of Madras, and Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, the consultation explored both the promising possibilities and practical challenges of nurturing synodality within the Indian Church.

The day began with a reflective prayer and welcome by Dr. James Ponniah, creating a contemplative space for open exchange. In the first session, Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi unpacked the meaning of synodality in the Indian context, emphasizing the social, cultural, and ecclesial dimensions that shape authentic dialogue and discernment. Participants were encouraged to reimagine leadership models that honor India’s rich diversity while fostering greater collaboration.

The second session highlighted inspiring synodal initiatives already transforming communities. Presentations included the Synodality Project by Dr. James Ponniah and Dr. Shiju Joseph CSC, insights on dialogical democracy from Ranjit George of Loyola Extension Services, and vernacular pastoral communications shared by George Plathottam SDB (FABC Office of Social Communications). Discussions also centered on diocesan and religious community efforts to amplify the voices of women, youth, and marginalized groups in Church decision-making.

The afternoon featured a spiritual conversation, inviting participants to discern how the Holy Spirit is guiding the Church in India toward greater communion. The final session, led by Charles Bertille and Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, focused on actionable steps to strengthen synodality at grassroots, diocesan, and national levels. Participants departed with renewed commitment to fostering inclusivity, dialogue, and shared responsibility in their ministries.

The consultation concluded with heartfelt gratitude and informal networking, sowing seeds for future collaboration. At the Peyton Institute for Families, we remain dedicated to supporting initiatives that help the Church truly journey together—listening, discerning, and growing in the Spirit of Christ.