"I can happily say that–with a spirit of collegiality and of synodality–we have truly lived the experience of 'Synod,' a path of solidarity, a 'journey together.'" Pope Francis said this in his speech at the conclusion of the Extraordinary Synod on the Family, on Saturday, October 18 before the Plenary Assembly of the Synod.
The Synod—continued the Pope—was "a journey where the stronger feel compelled to help the less strong, where the more experienced are led to serve others, even through confrontations. And since it is a journey of human beings, along with the consolations there were also moments of desolation, of tensions and temptation." Yet, the latter—said the Pope—"must not frighten or disconcert us, or even discourage us, because no disciple is greater than his master; so if Jesus Himself was tempted–and even called Beelzebul (cf. Mt 12:24)–His disciples should not expect better treatment. Personally I would be very worried and saddened if it were not for these temptations and these animated discussions; this movement of the spirits, as St Ignatius called it (Spiritual Exercises, 6), if all were in a state of agreement, or silent in a false and quietist peace."
