Short Course at Seminary in South Africa Seeks to Address Misconceptions About Synodality

On clericalism, Fr. Msomi clarified that the term does not solely refer to “the clergy claiming to be the Church, but also about some lay people who also claim or want to be ordained ministers.”

The member of the Clergy of South Africa’s Catholic Diocese of Mariannhill emphasized that the course aims to unpack certain themes within the discussions on synodality during the program that has brought together different people, including Laity, Religious, and Priests.

The week-long program provides an opportunity for reflection, learning, and formation on synodality, coinciding with a milestone in the Church’s life as Southern Africa commemorates 75 years since the establishment of its hierarchy.

The course brings together lay leaders from sodalities and lay associations, members of parish pastoral and finance councils, diocesan synod coordinators, Priests, Religious Sisters, and even representatives from other Christian denominations.

Fr. Msomi recognized the attendance of a minister from the Dutch Reformed Church and a participant currently in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), describing this diversity as a living expression of synodality itself.

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“In its very nature, the course is synodal because it includes everyone,” he said, and added that despite seeking to address the misconceptions about Synodality, the short course was also open to those who are not Catholics.

Regarding the content of the short course, Fr. Msomi explained that it covers the biblical foundations of synodality, which he said could not be fully understood without considering Pope Francis, along with the contextual, historical, and political factors that shaped him during his time as a bishop in his country.

He said that the participants will also examine key Church documents, including those of Vatican II, to understand how synodality has been interpreted and applied by Church leaders and the magisterium.

The program, he said, also reflects on the mission of the Church, highlighting the importance of dialogue, listening, and inclusive participation, ensuring that the Church remains outward-looking and engaged with the world.

Fr. Msomi said that practical aspects of synodality are also addressed in the course, including common misunderstandings, the proper use of Church terminology, and how Clergy and Laity can work and journey together effectively at parish, diocesan, and conference levels.

The South African Priest said that the course provides a space for reflection, learning, and formation on synodality, equipping participants to apply its principles thoughtfully within their communities.

Fr. Msomi thanked the Dioceses that had responded to the invitation by sending delegates, acknowledging in particular the strong participation from Pretoria, Kimberley, Manzini, and Queenstown. He expressed the hope that the attendees would return to their parishes and dioceses equipped to share their learning and to promote the practice of synodality locally.

Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.