Germany's Synodal Way Faces Challenges Amid 'Synodal Fatigue'
Germany's 'synodal way,' an initiative launched in December 2019 to address various issues within the Catholic Church, has concluded its first phase after six years. Initially expected to last two years, the process has been extended due to the complexity and volume of issues addressed, including women deacons, lay preaching, and priestly celibacy. The initiative has resulted in 150 pages of resolutions and proposes the creation of a new permanent national body, the 'synodal conference,' composed of bishops and laypeople. This body aims to replace the existing 'joint conference' and is scheduled to hold its first meeting in November. However, the initiative has faced challenges, including a lack of participation from bishops, leading to the cancellation of a scheduled meeting due to insufficient attendance. The synodal way has also seen a reduction in participation, with fewer members involved in recent assemblies. 
