Synod compiles 54 propositions

(October 22, 2009) The fathers of the Synod of Bishops for Africa, currently in session in the Vatican, are summarizing the work of the synod that they will finally present to Pope Benedict XVI for approval, that will go to create the synod’s final document. On Monday the participants drew up 54 propositions from the work of the synod so far since its start on Oct. 4. These propositions are being worked upon and amended before being presented to Pope Benedict XVI as the conclusions of the synod. On Tuesday, the Synod's relator-general, Cardinal Peter Turkson, archbishop of Cape Coast, Ghana worked with the relators of the 12 working groups and two other secretary bishops to compile a draft. The working groups handed in 282 propositions last Friday, which were later unified and summarized into 54. The 12 working groups are again working upon the 54 propositions. The results will be studied again by the relator-general and his team before a vote on Saturday to approve the final list. The propositions will be used by the Pope to write what is called the post-synodal apostolic exhortation. The Synod for Africa formally concludes on Sunday morning with a solemn Mass by Pope Benedict in St. Peter’s Basilica.