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Document Details : Title: Ecclesial Governance in Unusual Times Subtitle: A Theological Exploration of the Relationship between Synodality and Global Solidarity Author(s): OKPALEKE, Ikenna Paschal Journal: Louvain Studies Volume: 43 Issue: 3 Date: 2020 Pages: 278-296 DOI: 10.2143/LS.43.3.3288708 Abstract : Roman Catholic ecclesiology has remained largely hierarchical and so, synodality as a more inclusive and participatory model of ecclesial governance is still underdeveloped. This is notwithstanding the promotion of decentralization by Pope Francis as well as insights from ecumenical dialogue, particularly with the Orthodox and the Anglican Communion. Yet, there are historical accounts of how moments of crisis (pandemics, wars) have altered the processes of decision-making in both the church and state. This article therefore examines the possibility of such realignment of ecclesial governance on account of solidarity. In other words, one asks: In what ways can the solidarity provoked by a pandemic, such as the COVID-19, lead to an intensification of synodality in Roman Catholic ecclesiology? Besides providing some historical and contemporary narratives of the relationship between solidarity and synodality in ‘unusual times’, the arguments provided in this article bring the sub-disciplines of theology into a fruitful conversation. Overall, the article aims to draw out the implications of solidarity for the self-understanding of the church. |
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