Diocesan Resources
Working Together as a Listening Church
Thursday, October 4th marks the opening of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops. Over 300 participants, Bishops, Priests, Religious and Lay Men and Women will come together, guided by the Holy Spirit to discuss the themes of communion, participation and mission. These themes draw us deeper into our understanding of who we are as Church, and how we are called to evangelize. This experience of Synod will continue to deepen the Church’s understanding of the importance of hospitality.
Join us as we listen to theologian, David Wells, and his reflections on the Church as a place of welcome.
Questions for Reflection: What does welcome and hospitality mean for you in our evangelizing communities? What creative means might we consider in our work for welcome and inclusion in the life of the Church?
Over the month of October, we will journey aside the 16th General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops by reflecting on important themes that will be discussed by Synod representatives. We begin with the dignity of Baptism.
Through Baptism we are all created anew as members of the family of God. Baptism makes us one, with great responsibility to one another and the Church. We have a common mission, to grow in relationship with Jesus, and to share the Kingdom with the world. Hear more about the responsibility of Baptism, and how we are all called to participate in this Synodal journey as members of Christ’s Church.
Questions for Reflection: How do you express your faith? What does it mean to live as a Christian in today’s world?
We hear in the working document for the Synod on Synodality, that a synodal Church is open, welcoming and embraces all. The nature of Christianity is the call to build a community that lives and bears witness to understanding the relationship between the daughters and sons of God, one that embodies the truth of love. The radical call is, therefore, to build together, synodally, an outgoing Church, in which all feel welcome. (IL, §26). This week, we invite you to join us as we reflect on what it means to be “A Welcoming Church”.
Questions for Reflection: What does this call to welcome and inclusion mean for you? Who might be on the margins that the Church needs to pay particular attention to? What helps you feel like you belong in the Church?
This moment in the life of our Church comes by invitation of the Holy Spirit. This is a time for listening and encounter with all of God’s peoples. We are called to listen deeply to the situations in which the Church lives and carries out its mission. Through the dignity of your own baptism, the Church carries out its mission in you! A synodal Church is a listening Church, one of encounter and dialogue.
Questions for Reflection: Why is it important to have open and honest dialogue with our Church community? How do these conversations help us discern the direction of the Holy Spirit?
Although the Assembly of the Synod of Bishops has completed their conversations for this year, we, the faithful of the Diocese of Hamilton are encouraged to keep the conversation going in our homes, parishes and communities!
This week, we hear more about the important role the local Church plays in this process and the value of continued dialogue, rooted in generosity and deep reverence for the lived experience of all.
Questions for Reflection: What does a Synodal Church look like for you? What is the value of open and honest dialogue in our Church today?
Brochures
First brochure
What is Synodality in the Roman Catholic Church
A brochure released fall 2022 by the Diocese.
Second brochure
The Synod on Synodality
A brochure released spring 2023 by the Diocese.