How to Become a Synodal Parish: Level 100 Context and Practices (online)

Four years ago, Pope Francis invited the entire Church into a four-year journey to become more synodal.  The journey did not end when the final assembly in Rome closed in October.  Now it is time for each and everyone of us to tap into synodality in practical ways so that it soaks into every aspect of our lives and the communities in which we live.  What might you do?

In a synodal Church, we become a people characterized by participation, communion and mission.  Everyone has a voice because we acknowledge that the Holy Spirit lives in each person.  Everyone has gifts to offer the whole.  We walk together as disciples on The Way of Jesus – not on separate journeys or even similar journeys, but one journey as God’s people.

Being synodal matters when we have decisions to make.  It matters as we figure out how the Church should approach the world and handle our problems.  It matters as we imagine our future.  God is with us and has a plan.  A synodal Church can receive it and bring it to life – together.

Jesus consistently rooted his ministry in prayer and encounter; synodality calls us to do the same.  This journey is lifelong.  How can you and your parish join in?

If you are part of a leadership or ministry team in a parish or Catholic community, you and your team could grow through this workshop into a team equipped to bring synodality to life for the people you serve and to participate in the dreams God has for you and the Church.

This workshop will be interactive, with input from Bernadette as well as small and larger group discussion, prayer and individual reflection.

At the end of this workshop, your team will be able to:

• Practice spiritual discernment of God’s invitation both individually and communally.
• Understand and practice elements of synodality – story telling, deep and active listening, dialogue, co-responsibility.
• Identify possible places where you could bring what you’ve learned back to your parish or Catholic community.

What people are saying about “How to Become a Synodal Parish”

• This was a positive experience that gave me language to communicate more effectively about why this synodal process is so important and transformative for the church.
• Calling on the Spirit in our conversation reduces our anxiety and allows us to listen.
• The program was fully on point, with just the right pace and balance of input and engagement.
• Moving from scoffing into an attitude of positive doing.
• We had great connections and we could take the courses at home. Very good use of remote learning.
• We were given good tools. We will have to put them into practice and come back for more help.
• This should be widely promoted at ALL the parishes!

Cosponsored with Catholic Church Reform International