The Assignment
Study Group 8 was given the task of examining how the ministry of Papal Representatives which is fulfilled in different parts of the world can unfold in a more missionary and synodal perspective. An analysis of the exercise of the ministry was to be done and recommendations to be made.
Work Undertaken
Several meetings were held in person at the Office of the General Secretariat of the Synod in Rome. At times some Members participated by zoom. Besides, Cardinal Oswald Gracias (Co-ordinator), Cardinal Mario Grech and Prof. Myriam Wijlens (Secretary) met several times to plan the working of the Study Group. Archbishop Luciano Russo was also involved.
Progress so far:
1. During the Second Session of the 16th General Ordinary Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, after the formal meeting organized by the Synod Secretariat for all the Study Groups, a special meeting was called of the Presidents of Episcopal Conferences present at the Synod to exchange views on the ministry of the Papal Representatives. 61 Presidents were present at the Synod, 45 of them participated in the meeting and several others had personal conversations with members of the Study Group.
2. A webinar was held for the Nuncios around the world to acquaint them with the work of the Study Group and to discuss Synodality. For the convenience of the Nuncios, because of the different time zones, three sessions were held. 87 Papal Nuncios participated. The participation was in depth, serious and earnestly seeking a way for exercising the ministry in a synodal missionary perspective.
3. A Circular Letter was sent to all Presidents of Episcopal Conferences by Cardinal Grech and Cardinal Gracias inviting all to make suggestions for the ministry of Papal Representatives. There has been a very good response. The Synod Secretariat is processing the replies. We will discuss the conclusions with the Study Group.
4. A Circular Letter was also sent to all the Apostolic Nuncios asking them to make their suggestions and give comments after having discussed the matter with their collaborators. The response has been very good and valuable. Their replies are also being studied.
5. Personal Meetings: Cardinal Gracias and Prof. Wijlens met with experts in the field – (a) an expert based in Mumbai who belongs to a Think Tank headquartered in USA which advises foreign ministry of governments and ambassadors; (b) they also met Professors from the Institute for the training of diplomats at Georgetown University, Washington DC. There were also personal meetings with Diplomats and Papal Representatives to get their feedback.
6. Since the subject matter of Study Group 7 (nomination of Bishops and the role of Papal Representatives) was connected with the matter of Group 8, there was a joint meeting of the Study Groups 7 and 8. Besides, we are in regular contact with Bishop Felix Genn, Co-ordinator of Study Group 7, to share our findings and mutually complement our studies.
7. Cardinal Grech, a member of Group 8, addressed the Nuncios during their recent meeting in Rome from 9 – 11 June 2025. He spoke about Synodality and the Study Group. There has been good feedback.
Looking Ahead
The main study and collection of material has been completed and the matter now needs to be processed, analysed and shared with the Members of the Study Group. Due to distances involved this will take time, but it is expected that by the end of 2025 we will have the main conclusions unless some unexpected development arises which necessitates further study. However, to be able to ensure a thorough treatment of the subject it would be safe to presume that the final report could be handed over to the Synod Secretariat by the end of December 2025.
The areas being followed up are:
1) The process of selection of candidates for the Academia.
2) The formation of the candidates in the Academia.
3) Assistance for the Members of the Service in their early years.
4) A support system for the Members.
5) Procedure for a more accurate and regular assessment.
6) Continuous ongoing formation.
7) Strengthening collaboration with Episcopal Conferences.
8) Deepening relationship with the local Churches.
9) Possibility of regional meetings of Nuncios for fraternal sharing.
10) Care after retirement.
Coordinator: H. Em. Card. Oswald Gracias