William Mahoney

From Ancient Synods to Modern Process

Or how Bergoglian synodality is a subversion of the Tradition of the Catholic Church

The Church’s earliest synods were assemblies convened to address particular ecclesiastical questions. Bishops gathered to resolve doctrinal disputes, establish disciplinary measures, and settle matters affecting local church governance. Such assemblies were called for specific purposes, and their authority depended upon who convened them, who participated, and the jurisdiction under which their decisions were made.

From Synods to “Synodality”

[Editor’s Note: This article is the first in a series examining modern synodality. The series moves from its theology and history to its institutional structures, concluding with an investigation of the networks and organizations advancing the project. William Mahoney holds a Ph.D. and S.T.L. in Dogmatic Theology, an S.T.L. in Biblical Theology, and an M.A. in Philosophy.]