The SACBC in August 2022 submitted its synthesis report on the synodal process which took place in various dioceses of the conference. The synthesis was presented at the Plenary Meeting of the bishops in August 2022 in Mariannhill, and was formatted according to the template given in the Vade Mecum (guide).  It was then sent to Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, with a letter bearing the signature of Archbishop Dabula Mpako, the Archbishop of Pretoria and Contact Person for SACBC Synodal process, also with the signature of the Secretary General, Fr. Hugh O’Connor.

Speaking about the process, the report notes in its introduction that “because of the time frames involved, the diversity of the Church across the Conference area and the effects of Covid (which had greatly impacted on the Church) each diocese approached the process in a manner best suited to their situation.” The introduction which is comprised of the process, responses, variety of responses to the Synod on Synodality, social context and conclusion, is followed by the body of the synthesis organised under different headings.

The conclusion speaks about the next steps of the process, the connection of the pastoral plan of the SACBC, diocesan pastoral plans and the synod. In the letter to Cardinal Grech, Archbishop Mpako said the outcomes of the process is and will be of great help to different dioceses, and a lot of work needs to be done still to continue the listening and dialogue.

Full report below.