Mission of the synodal church at the margins: Discerning hope in the post-Christian West

In the context of increasing secularization and religious disaffiliation in the West, this article explores how the Church’s mission might be reimagined through the lens of synodality and spiritual accompaniment. Drawing on the theological insights of Karl Rahner, Richard Lennan, and Pope Francis, the paper introduces the category of “new generation seekers”—individuals who stand at the margins of institutional religion yet remain spiritually open. It argues that the Church’s mission must move beyond strategies of optimization and instead embrace a kenotic, dialogical, and Spirit led approach. Synodality, understood as a modus vivendi et procedendi , provides a framework for radical listening, shared responsibility, and wisdom-based dialogue. Within this framework, spiritual accompaniment emerges as a vital practice for engaging seekers in their existential and spiritual questions. The paper understands such accompaniment not only as a form of ecclesial service to seekers, but also as a means through which the Church may gain crucial insight for its own ongoing synodal transformation.