Episode 2575: The Synod on Synodality: Exposing Hypocrisy and Grievance within the Church

Today, we delve into the ongoing Synod on Synodality, an event that has been taking the Church by storm and revealing various undercurrents of hypocrisy, grievance, and theological error. From the ambiguous discussions about women in the diaconate to the cultural justifications for changing moral teachings, this synod is a critical moment for Catholics around the world.
While some hail it as a new era of "listening" and "inclusivity," others see it for what it truly is: a dangerous shift toward secular relativism, which seeks to distort the unchanging truths of the Church. Throughout this episode, we’ll discuss these developments from a traditional Catholic perspective, emphasizing the importance of upholding the Church's timeless teachings.
The Nature of the Synod: Grievance and Relativism
The Synod on Synodality has brought to light a disturbing pattern. Instead of focusing on the salvation of souls, many within the Church especially those participating in the synodal process are prioritizing grievance and cultural accommodation. There is a growing sentiment that the Church has been unjust for centuries, and that its teachings, especially on moral issues, are outdated and oppressive.

This mindset is rooted in grievance, where individuals claim that the Church has wronged certain groups and must change its doctrine to "right" those perceived wrongs. This approach is incredibly dangerous because it leads to the second issue: relativism.
Relativism is the belief that truth is not absolute, but rather subject to the whims and circumstances of particular cultures or individual experiences. In Africa, for example, some bishops argue that the cultural practices of polygamy should lead to a reconsideration of the Church's teachings on marriage. In the West, advocates like Fr. James Martin argue that the Church needs to soften its stance on homosexual acts, as modern culture has become more "accepting."
In both cases, the argument is the same: the Church needs to "get with the times." However, this attitude is a grave error. The Church is not meant to conform to the world; rather, it is the Church's mission to transform the world by holding fast to the eternal truths given to us by Christ.

Women in the Diaconate: A Symptom of Deeper Issues
Another glaring example of this problematic approach is the ongoing debate over the ordination of women to the diaconate. Recently, Cardinal Fernández reiterated that the Church does not support ordaining women as deaconesses. However, his language was ambiguous, leaving the door open for potential future changes.
This ambiguity, combined with the push from certain American advocates (mostly women), reveals a deep crisis of understanding within the Church. Many see this as an issue of "justice" and "equality," rather than as a matter of sacred tradition and divine will. The diaconate, like the priesthood, is reserved for men because Christ instituted the sacrament in this way. To change this teaching would not be a "development" but a betrayal of what Christ Himself established.
The Hypocrisy of the Hierarchy
As we reflect on these issues, it’s hard not to see the hypocrisy that permeates the hierarchy. Many bishops who should be defending the Church’s teachings have instead chosen to placate cultural trends. This isn’t just happening in the things happening globally, including among the African bishops, who were once hailed as defenders of orthodoxy.
For example, some African bishops are now asking for guidelines on how to deal with Catholics involved in polygamous relationships. While polygamy may be a cultural practice in some African countries, this does not mean that the Church’s teaching on the indissolubility of marriage should be compromised. The sacraments, particularly marriage, are rooted in divine law, not cultural norms. The Church must proclaim the truth of one man, one woman, for life regardless of the cultural challenges this may present.
Moral Theology and the Danger of Proportionalism
One of the more alarming developments from the Synod on Synodality is the proposal to move away from objective moral truths toward a "new paradigm" that emphasizes individual circumstances. This approach, known as proportionalism, claims that moral absolutes should be abandoned in favor of discerning what is "best" in a given situation.
This is a direct assault on the moral theology upheld by the Church for centuries. Pope John Paul II, in his encyclical Veritatis Splendor, strongly condemned this idea. Moral truth is not dependent on personal circumstances; it is universal and unchanging. To embrace proportionalism is to abandon the Church’s mission to lead souls to holiness and eternal life.
Conclusion: A Call to Remain Faithful
The Synod on Synodality, while presenting itself as a moment of "listening" and "dialogue," is in reality a battleground for the future of the Church. We, as faithful Catholics, must stand firm in the truth that Christ has given us. Our faith is not subject to the changing tides of culture or political pressure. We must pray for our bishops and the Holy Father, that they will have the courage to resist the allure of modernism and relativism.
As we wait for the final outcomes of this synod, let us recommit ourselves to the timeless teachings of the Church. Remember that the truth does not change, even if the world around us does. Stay faithful, pray for the Church, and remain steadfast in the truth.
Closing Prayer
Let us pray.
Lord Jesus Christ,
You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. As we navigate these difficult times in the Church, we pray for Your guidance and strength. Grant that the leaders of the Church may remain faithful to Your teachings and resist the temptations of compromise and relativism. Help us, Your faithful, to stand firm in the truth, even when the world around us falters.
We entrust ourselves and the Church into the hands of Your Blessed Mother, the model of perfect faith and obedience. Through her intercession, may we remain ever faithful to You.
We ask this in Your Holy Name.
Amen.
In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.