Synod: Ancient and Modern, Latin and Technology

When the synod fathers vote on an issue, they do so with an electronic system -- but in Latin, the assembly's official language.

VATICAN CITY (Zenit) - The synod of bishops on the word of God is a mix of the old and the new: When the synod fathers vote on an issue, they do so with an electronic system -- but in Latin, the assembly's official language.

For the system to work, the 253 voting participants must occupy the place assigned to them, where they have a telecontrol. (The 41 experts, 37 auditors and 10 ecumenical delegates have a voice at the assembly, but not a vote.)

Archbishop Nikola Eterovic, secretary-general of the synod, presented the new voting system today before the addresses began.

The telecontrol is also being used for the synod fathers to "clock in" each day; this is registered by the secretariat of the synod.

Today, the system was used for a vote on those who will make up the commission to write the final message. Voting began by continents -- but as proof that technology is not always foolproof, there was a problem with the system.

The synod fathers will vote on various occasions during the assembly on proposals to present to the Pope as a result of the discussions. If the Holy Father so desires, he will then use these suggestions for an apostolic exhortation that he will write to summarize the fruits of the synod.

The synod fathers can vote "Placet" (yes, in favor), "Non placet" (no, against), "Abstineo" (abstention), "Placet iuxta modum" (in favor but with reservation).

The fathers then have to confirm that they have selected the vote they want, choosing between "deleo" (cancel) or "confirmo" (confirm).