As the bishops of Germany move forward with a synodal path that could impact the entire Church, Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila is releasing an open letter to his fellow bishops, especially those in Germany.
The letter was written over several months, guided by prayer and the Holy Spirit. It was finalized and signed on the Ascension of the Lord, in light of the great commission given to the Apostles and disciples.
Archbishop Aquila explains in the letter why he was moved to respond:
“Mindful of the sacred responsibility to bear witness to him who sent me, I write this letter out of love for Jesus Christ and for the Universal Church that is the Bride of Christ. Like bishops in previous generations throughout the history of the Church who wrote to their brother bishops when important theological discussions were taking place, I send this letter to you. Most of us outside Germany are aware through the media of the German Catholic Synodal Path and the outspokenness of some bishops in calling for radical changes to Church teaching and practice. Some may also have seen the ‘Fundamental Text’ that has emerged from ‘Forum I’ of the Synodal Path. I offer this response for your prayer and reflection and to encourage other bishops to bear witness boldly to the truth of the Gospel, to Jesus Christ who is ‘the way, and the truth, and the life’ (John 14:6).”
The letter is available in English, Spanish and German:
