THE SYNODAL PATHWAY
February 25th, 2022
Pope Francis has invited us to come together to reflect on our experience of Church. He has been very clear that listening to each other is an important part of the synodal process, as we try to discern what the Holy Spirit is saying to the Church in our time. So, the Church wants to hear from YOU!
Listening to each other has been made more difficult due to the pandemic, as it has been difficult to gather. Given these COVID related challenges, how can we listen to each other?
In this diocese, on Ash Wednesday and for some time into the early period of Lent, all parishioners will be invited to reflect on four questions, to pray about these and to give a written response (anonymously). To facilitate this, cards will be given out, or available to collect from the church. These cards will contain the questions. and people are asked to return the completed card, as soon as possible, to a designated box in the church (a cut-off date for return will be announced later).
The questions offered, to prompt reflection, may seem complex. So, it is perhaps helpful to bear in mind a key question, which is at the heart of this whole listening phase of the synodal process: WHAT DO YOU THINK THE HOLY SPIRIT IS SAYING TO THE CHURCH NOW AS WE JOURNEY TOGETHER?
This is a chance for every voice in the community of believers to be heard, because each and all have a view to offer.