The call for synodality has been louder than ever, but does the Church truly understand what it means to listen, especially to those who have left its pews? Listening has become a recurring term in religious circles, particularly in discussions around synodality. But if the Catholic Church is serious about this form of governance, it Read more
Over the past three years, I have been speaking to many groups about the notion of synodality and what it might mean (and not mean) for that community of disciples we refer to as the Catholic Church. In the discussions, one question is invariably put to me, and it amounts to this: If you were Read more
Listening is not a one-way process but should be a matter of mutual concern, each paying attention to the other. In Matthew’s Gospel Jesus concludes the parable of the Sower with the words, “Listen, anyone who has ears to hear”. Talking is not enough. If real communication is to occur, each has to listen to Read more
This is a Synod on synodality, we were told. My first reaction was: what is synodality? “Synodality means walking together,” we were then told. But this had to be explained several times, and not only to those less educated. Synodality is a strange word, even for the more literate. So, I have a problem with Read more
“The path of synodality is the path that God expects from the Church of the third millennium,” Pope Francis has said. And so it is not surprising that in region after region Catholic bishops are embracing synodality. The Germans have embarked on a synodal path, the Australians a plenary council, the Irish a synod … Read more
There can be little doubt that the experience of being a Catholic in 2020 – the year of COVID-19 – has marked our experience and our habits profoundly and changed the way we shape and imagine our belonging to the Church. But there is an additional element to consider – the impact of these new Read more
People and how they are shaped in faith and not buildings make up the strength of the Catholic Church says Cardinal Luis Tagle. Those with the gift of listening are the biggest gift of all, he said. Tagle, the newly appointed congregation head for the Evangelisation of Peoples was speaking with clergy and laity at Read more
Pope Francis has called for a Church that listens and learns at every level, but he said this requires the correct view of Church structure. Marking the 50th anniversary of the Synod of Bishops, Francis outlined his vision for a Church that is “synodal” at every level. “A synodal church is a listening church, aware that listening is Read more
Pope Francis has criticised “worldly pastors” who say and do great things, but who do not listen. Preaching on June 25 regarding Jesus’ authoritative teaching, the Pope said there are three things to look for to distinguish true preachers of the Gospel from false prophets. These are: How do they speak, what do they do Read more