By Charles Igwe
As the Synod on Synodality nears its conclusion in the Vatican, Pope Francis delivered a heartfelt video message on Wednesday to the young people attending the 16th Ordinary General Assembly. In his message, the Pope used the metaphor of flowing water to emphasize the importance of youthful energy and persistence.
“Flowing water is good,” he said, “but when water stops, it ends badly.” He cautioned that when young people lose their momentum, they become vulnerable to corruption, comparing stagnation to water becoming contaminated with “little creatures.” The Pope urged the young participants to keep progressing with courage and joy, warning against fatigue and complacency.
The Synod, which includes 368 voting members from diverse backgrounds, features a wide array of participants—from cardinals and theologians to professors and students. Of the voting members, 272 are bishops, and 96 are non-bishops, including lay Catholics. Two of the youngest participants are in their early 20s, representing a youthful voice in the discussions.
