The Synod on Synodality extended a strong invitation to institutions of higher learning to engage in research and scholarship "aimed at clarifying and deepening the meaning of synodality and accompanying formation in the local Churches." This volume responds to this invitation by gathering creative and critical reflections, analyses, and narratives of African scholars to advance the understanding, knowledge, and practice of synodality in the Church in Africa and beyond.

Cardinal Mario Grech,

Secretary General of the General Secretariat ofthe Synod

As the Final Document and the lived experience of the Synod emphasize the beauty of cultural diversity and call for creative implementation of synodality in local Churches according to their context-while remaining in unity envisioned as pluriform harmony-this book offering plural reflections on African synodal theology is most welcome. It will surely inspire concrete pathways for the synodal journey to unfold as a 'path of spiritual renewal and structural reform' across this vibrant continent. What strikes me most profoundly is the embodied approach to synodality these essays offer, deeply rooted in African culture, values, symbolisms, and metaphors, while honestly naming some obstacles like challenges posed by patriarchal and hierarchical patterns. Rather than merely explaining synodal principles, the authors invite us to live them. This is precisely the spirit needed as we move from documents to transformed missionary communities. Throughout the Synod, Africa has made vital contributions, beginning with the vision of Church as Family of God that resonates powerfully with the synodal Church as relational Church. In this book, Father Orobator has gathered insightful voices that highlight the continent's rich traditions of spirituality, communal discernment, and participatory decision-making, offering invaluable wisdom for reimagining concretely what it means to be Church as People of God walking together to proclaim the Gospel and serve the people in Africa. These voices exemplify the 'exchange of gifts' at the heart of synodality.

Sr. Nathalie Becquart, XMCJ

Under-Secretary, General Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops