Pope Francis urges Church to seek pardon ahead of synod

The Catholic Church must confront its past mistakes and seek forgiveness to maintain credibility in its mission of spreading the teachings of Christ, Pope Francis stated. This call for acknowledgment came during a penitential liturgy held on October 1, where seven cardinals read out requests for forgiveness penned by the pope himself.

Pope Francis highlighted various sins including abuse, lack of courage in pursuing peace, disrespect for human life, mistreatment of women, and indifference towards the poor. The event marked the end of a two-day retreat for the Synod of Bishops on synodality, set to continue until October 27.

In his address at St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis emphasized that healing damaged relationships is essential for the church to become truly synodal. He remarked that sin disrupts fundamental connections between individuals and God as well as among believers.

Testimonies were given by three witnesses: Laurence Gien, a victim of clerical abuse; Sara Vatteroni from Italy who assists migrants; and Sister Deema Fayyad from Syria who spoke about war's impact. Gien criticized the church's historical complicity in maintaining secrecy around abuse cases.

Retired Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley expressed shame over abuses committed by clergy against minors and vulnerable people. He conveyed Pope Francis' prayer asking for forgiveness for these actions.

Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell sought forgiveness on behalf of men in the church for failing to recognize women's dignity or exploiting them. Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández read a prayer acknowledging times when church leaders failed to uphold Gospel teachings effectively.

Pope Francis stressed that reconciliation is crucial for a synodal church and urged members to seek forgiveness to rebuild trust shattered by past wrongdoings. Addressing young people present at the service, he also asked pardon for failing as credible witnesses of faith.

The pope concluded with a prayer seeking God's forgiveness and courage for genuine repentance within the church community.