Episcopalis communio and Its Final Document

The apostolic constitution Episcopalis communio introduced a significant shift in the governance of the Catholic Church by allowing the final documents of synods to attain magisterial status with the approval of the Pope. This change emphasizes the importance of synodal processes in shaping church doctrine and practice. Additionally, the constitution facilitates direct input from laity to the synod's secretary general, promoting greater inclusivity and participation in church decision-making. This move is seen as a step towards creating a more synodal church, which some analysts argue could be one of the most impactful legacies of Pope Francis's leadership. The synods held on various topics, including family, youth, and the Amazon region, reflect the Church's engagement with contemporary issues and the desire to incorporate diverse perspectives into its teachings.