Father Enrique Figaredo, SJ, Apostolic Prefect of Battambang, Cambodia, is one of the participants at the Synod on Synodality. He reflects on the impact of the synodal process, highlighting how synodality is shaping the Church’s mission, particularly its emphasis on serving the poor and promoting relationships rooted in compassion.

Reflecting on the synodal process since the First Session last year, Fr Enrique observes significant progress. He notes that the idea of synodality is not just a concept, rather, “it is touching our pastoral life, our commitment, and mission”. He further highlights that synodality involves descending to the needs of others, particularly the poor... “We are going down to the needs of the people and to the needs of the poor.”

In Cambodia, where he serves, Fr Enrique says that the idea of synodality is taking root, especially in the area of conversion. “We are talking about conversion in the way that we do things and make decisions”, he says. Even as the local Church embraces a “new way to be Church”, he is confident that Cambodia is on the right path if “the priority is the mission to serve the poor”.

The Apostolic Prefect goes on to note that the Synod has brought to the forefront the work of religious orders like the Society of Jesus, among others, as their apostolic activities are vital contributions to the Church’s broader mission. Their service to the poor, care for the environment, provision of educational and social services, and spiritual guidance are valued.

On a personal note, he sees the Synod as an experience of personal conversion on two fronts. First at the level of relationships within the Church and all of creation. He stresses that we need to foster relationships of “loving kindness, tenderness and justice”. The second level of conversion is the exchange of gifts, where in the service of the poor and those in need, we recognize God in them, as we too share our gifts with them.