Addressing Concerns About Syncretism at the Amazon Synod: A Closer Look
Recent discussions and news coverage surrounding the Synod of Amazonia have highlighted the concern of syncretism among its attendees. However, a careful examination of the preparatory documents and the Instrumentum Laboris reveals a different narrative. This article aims to provide clarity on these issues and address the concerns presented.
Understanding Syncretism: A Brief Overview
At its core, syncretism is defined as the fusion of distinct and often diverse belief systems, resulting in new forms of religious or cultural expression. In the context of the Amazon Synod, syncretism refers to the blending of Catholic teachings with indigenous cultural and religious practices.
The Synod's Focus on Dialogue and Inculturation
While syncretism is not explicitly addressed in the preparatory documents or identified as a significant issue in the Amazon, the Synod places a considerable emphasis on dialogue and inculturation. The Synod's document, 'Instrumentum Laboris,' dedicates an entire chapter to the theme of dialogue, emphasizing the importance of open conversation and mutual understanding.
According to Jesus, 'They have eyes and they do not see; they have ears and they do not hear,' as quoted in Mark 8:18. This verse underlines the importance of empathy and openness in dialogue. Additionally, there is a dedicated chapter on ecumenical and interreligious dialogue with a theme of 'Now we shall try to outline the major paths of dialogue which can help us escape the spiral of self-destruction which currently engulfs us,' as mentioned in paragraph 163 of 'Lumen Sentence.'
Dialogue: A Cornerstone of the Amazon Synod
The Synod document refers to 'dialogue' nearly 70 times, and 'inculturation' or 'enculturation' is mentioned another 15 times, demonstrating the Synod's commitment to these principles. These references highlight the Synod's goal to foster an inclusive environment where different cultural and religious traditions can coexist and enrich one another.
Criticism and Misinterpretation
Recent news articles, such as 'What Does the Amazon Synods Working Document Really Say - Crisis Magazine,' have drawn attention to syncretism as a significant issue at the Synod. However, these articles seem to deviate from the actual document's content. The article highlights six main themes: colonialism, ecology and environmentalism, the South American Church's involvement in liberation theology, syncretism, the possibility of married priests, and the role of women in the Church. Notably, the document does not explicitly address syncretism, nor does it treat it as a serious problem.
Furthermore, the Prosperity Gospel is described as a threat, which indicates the Synod's focus on addressing issues considered more pressing and common threats to the faith and life of the Church.
Pope Francis on the ‘Inside’ and ‘Outside’ Synods
Pope Francis has warned about the 'two synods': the 'inside' Synod, which follows the path of the Church's care for processes, and the 'outside' Synod, which can be misleading due to imprudent information given by reporters. In his caution, Pope Francis emphasizes the risk of misinformation and the need for careful communication.
“A process such as that of a Synod can be ruined somewhat if when I go out of the Hall I say what I think and then that characteristic happens that happened in some Synods: of the inside Synod and the outside Synod. The inside Synod which follows a path of Mother Church of care for the processes and the outside Synod which because of information given lightly given with imprudence moves ex officio reporters to make mistakes.”
Conclusion
While syncretism may exist in some contexts, the Synod of Amazonia has not identified it as a significant concern. The document's emphasis on dialogue and inculturation underscores the Church's commitment to fostering a space where cultural and religious traditions can coexist and enrich one another. The Synod's focus on more pressing issues, such as colonialism and the environment, further supports the idea that syncretism is not a central concern.
It remains to be seen if syncretism will be addressed during the discussions, but it is clear that the Synod's primary focus is on broader, more pressing issues facing the Church and the region.