Abstract:

Synodality has been a consistent yet new topic in today’s theological, pastoral, and ecclesiological conversation. This dissertation proposes a theological and biblical connection of Synodality with the Communion Model of the Church. However, despite the close connection, Synodality has its own unique character that differentiates itself from Communion Model.

This research endeavors to show that Synodality is the new explicitation of Communion ecclesiology with emphasis given to communal discernment in decision making in the life and activity of the Church, as well as the bigger role the Holy Spirit plays in the Synodal Journey of the Church.

It also highlights that one of the critical ways of implementing the theology and practice of Synodality is through the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs), which is described in the post- Vatican II Church as the new Way of being Church. As established Christian communities, the BECs can play the vital role to communicate the sentiments of the people in the peripheries and assert the voice of the ordinary faithful in the ecclesial decision that matters to the life of the people of God.

Final Defense:

Board of Examiners:

1. Fr. Emmanuel Marfori, S.Th.D. (Adviser)
2. Br. Joaquin Yap, Jr., S.W., D.Phil. (Second Reader/Principal Examiner)
3. Fr. Oliver Dy, S.J., S.T.D., Ph.D., Fr. Salvador Agualada, Jr., C.M.F., S.T.D.,
4. Fr. Randy Jasper Odchigue, S.T.D., Ph.D.

Proposal Defense:

Board of Examiners:
1. Fr. Emmanuel Marfori, S.Th.D. (Adviser)
2. Br. Joaquin Yap, Jr., S.W., D.Phil.
3. Fr. Teotimo Melliza, S.S.P., Ph.D.

Proposal Title: Contextualizing Synodality in the Kapitbahayan ng Munting Sambayanang Kristiyano