In an interview published in the Argentinian daily newspaper "La Nacion" on Monday, the cardinal said: "The question of synodality will characterise the future of the Church." Pope Francis had "a great vision" when he decided to convene a world synod on this topic.
In order to grow, the Church must involve all the baptised in the dialogue within the Church. It was no longer about seeing the Church as a pyramid, but as a living organism. The World Synod will help to clearly recognise this and it will have far-reaching consequences for the future.
Commenting on the current conflicts within the Church, the Cardinal said: "We all feel the suffering, the questions, the dramas. No one can remain indifferent. At this time in the Church, I feel that I am helping to fulfil Pope Francis' vision."
On the current crisis in the Church, Mendonca said: "I don't see this time with pessimism, but with hope, because I see many men and women who are ready to give the Church a second chance."
The greatest current challenge for the Church
When asked about the greatest current challenge for the Church, Mendonca replied: "This is the translation of the Christian experience into the language of our time. This experience cannot remain chained in a language that we have inherited from the past."
The missionary dream of reaching everyone is the great challenge that Pope Francis is talking about.
Regarding his personal relationship with Francis, Mendonca remarked that the Pope gives him a lot of freedom, including the freedom to continue writing poetry. This is part of his vocation. He admires Francis' intelligence.
"When he answers, he does so with intelligence and depth. And he often develops questions in surprising ways. That fascinates me and I want to learn."
Cardinal Mendonca (58), who comes from the island of Madeira, has headed the Vatican's Dicastery for Culture and Education since 2022.
The cleric, who belongs to the Dominican order, has written numerous books, including volumes of poetry, and has won several literary awards in Portugal and Italy.