Pope Leo praises Pope Francis for redefining synodality as a guiding style that shapes the Church’s identity in Vatican meeting

It was a meaningful afternoon just outside the Vatican walls on June 26, 2025, as Pope Leo XIV met with members of the Synod’s 16th ordinary council.

While his visit was brief, it carried a powerful message—one that echoed the heart of his predecessor’s papacy.

As the Church continues its path of renewal and listening, Pope Leo took a moment to speak about what Pope Francis truly left behind—a legacy not just of action, but of attitude.

Synodality as a Way of Being, Not Just a Process

Pope Leo didn’t hesitate to name what he believes is Pope Francis’ greatest contribution to the modern Church: his emphasis on synodality.

But for Leo, synodality isn’t simply about organizing Church meetings—it’s about a way of thinking and being together.

He described it as “a style, an attitude that helps us to be Church,” emphasizing how Francis encouraged genuine participation and communion among Catholics at every level.

According to Pope Leo, this shift toward a more open and listening Church was central to Francis’ leadership.

Honoring the Spirit of St. Paul VI

During his short remarks to bishops and lay participants, Pope Leo pointed out that Pope Francis frequently looked to St. Paul VI as a guide in his vision for the Church.

He said that Francis drew inspiration from the late pope’s efforts to expand the role of the Synod of Bishops, and then built on it in a powerful, transformative way.

Francis didn’t just talk about change—he modeled it by encouraging the Church to walk together in dialogue and discernment.

Learning from the Synods on the Family

Pope Leo also reminded attendees that some of the biggest moments of Pope Francis’ pontificate came during the 2014 and 2015 synods on the family.

These gatherings stirred serious debate—especially around the possibility of allowing divorced and remarried Catholics to receive Communion without an annulment.

Though the discussions were controversial, they led to real shifts in pastoral practice.

Pope Francis ultimately allowed room for discernment, giving some Catholics in these situations the chance to receive the Eucharist after thoughtful reflection with a priest.

Looking Ahead with a Reflective Spirit

Although Pope Leo didn’t stay for the full afternoon session, he left the synod leaders with a challenge: don’t just celebrate what’s been done—build on it.

He encouraged the Synod of Bishops to take everything that’s been learned and matured under Pope Francis and use it as the foundation for thoughtful, forward-looking reflection.

Even as the Church continues to evolve, Pope Leo’s remarks served as a powerful reminder that the spirit of synodality isn’t just about structural change—it’s about staying rooted in community, dialogue, and discernment.