The vast crowds filling St Peter’s Square for Pope Leo’s Angelus on Sunday might have suggested a papal election rather than an ordinary weekly blessing. Yet among the thousands gathered were more than 4,000 delegates attending the Jubilee for Synodal Teams — Church representatives from across the world who came to celebrate, reflect, and listen to the Pope’s emerging vision for synodality.
The well-organised programme of workshops, seminars and liturgies culminated in a Mass celebrated by Pope Leo himself. A strong Irish presence was noted throughout the event, both among participants and organisers. Pedro Walpole SJ from Limerick led one workshop on how synodality can help the Church to hear the cry of the poor and of the earth, underlining Ireland’s continuing contribution to global synodal dialogue.
In plenary session, Pope Leo joined delegates for an open exchange — a symbolic act of listening that saw the Holy Father seated among participants as questions were put to him directly. One question addressed the role of women in the Church. Responding in English, with one animated reply in Spanish, Pope Leo affirmed the dignity and giftedness of women, while noting the great variety of cultural norms that shape expectations of the role of women. Although some were disappointed by the absence of specifics, observers viewed the fact that the issue was raised and answered directly in dialogue as significant.
Throughout the weekend, speakers such as Cardinal Mario Grech and Cardinal Rys of Lódz urged delegates to sustain the Church’s mission through harmony and unity, even amid tensions. Many noted that the themes discussed mirrored those emerging in Ireland’s own Synodal Pathway, including the call to discernment and participation rooted in baptism.
In his homily at the closing Mass, Pope Leo spoke of building “a Church that is humbler and more welcoming, that is entirely synodal, ministerial and attracted to Christ and therefore committed to serving the world.”
For the Irish delegates, the message seemed clear: renewal must continue through dialogue, patience, and a shared search for communion.
