The canonisation of Blessed John Henry Newman should remind the Amazon synod that its discussions have to be seen in the context of the universal Church, Cardinal Vincent Nichols has said.
Speaking ahead of the canonisation of the first ever post-Reformation English saint, the Cardinal Archbishop of Westminster said next Sunday’s ceremony should remind synod participants that their discussions will have an impact of the Church beyond the Amazon.
“There might be a trend of thought that says that the Amazon is an exception, it is a unique area, it is something that somehow is different, that it faces different issues,” Cardinal Nichols said. However, he pointed out that a total of five people from three different continents will be canonised on Sunday.
“It’s a reminder that no geographical section of the Church stands on its own, and whatever is reflected upon in that synod on Amazon, has to be seen in the context of the Universal Church,” the cardinal said.
Alongside Newman, Pope Francis will also canonise Sister Mariam Thresia of India, Sister Giuseppina Vannini of Italy, Sister Dulce Lopes Pontes of Brazil and Marguerite Bays of Switzerland.
Areas of Catholic Herald business are still recovering post-pandemic.
However, we are reaching out to the Catholic community and readership, that has been so loyal to the Catholic Herald. Please join us on our 135 year mission by supporting us.
We are raising £250,000 to safeguard the Herald as a world-leading voice in Catholic journalism and teaching.
We have been a bold and influential voice in the church since 1888, standing up for traditional Catholic culture and values. Please consider donating.