Evangelization Outreach / Ken Ogorek

What is ‘synodality?’ You’re invited in March to come and see!

While the word “synodality” can be off-putting to some, at its heart this topic of the current and most recent Synod of Bishops on synodality connects closely with the mission and ministry of evangelization.

As our local Church continues implementing this synod’s vision of communion, participation and mission, you have an opportunity to learn a new way of approaching conversations at an upcoming event (see details below).

A northern workshop—with a southern one to come!

Back in November, more than 40 representatives of eight parishes gathered at an archdiocese-sponsored event—hosted at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in Indianapolis—for an experience called “Conversations in the Spirit.” This method for facilitating discussions, both small and large, is easily learned and replicated; it encourages deep, authentic listening, ensuring that each participant is heard.

“Conversations in the Spirit” has been the method used for recent gatherings of the Synod of Bishops in Rome. This tool for constructive dialogue is encouraged in the synod’s final document being implemented throughout the world—including our archdiocese— during the next couple of years.

You’re invited to the sunny south in March!

This coming March—a Saturday—you have an opportunity to experience “Conversations in the Spirit” at an archdiocesan workshop hosted at St. John Paul II Parish in Sellersburg in the New Albany Deanery. The two-hour event starts at 9:30 a.m. and is open to all interested adults—especially lay and ordained parish leaders.

While there is no cost to attend this workshop, called “Growing Together as a Listening Church,” registration is required and can be accomplished at this link. Questions about the event can be addressed by calling 317-236-1550.

A listening Church

Participants in the November workshop in Indianapolis expressed appreciation for the way “Conversations in the Spirit” provides an opportunity for each person to express herself or himself, sharing thoughts and feelings without immediate interruption or being judged as a person.

In a culture where our ability to listen and learn from each other can be challenging, “Conversations in the Spirit” helps us hear each other’s voices—as well as that of the Holy Spirit and the Church he helps guide.

Our Church is more of a listening Church than many people realize. That being said, there’s always room for improvement in how we collaborate as members of Christ’s body, striving among other goals to foster parish health and vibrancy.

Roll out the synod!

As mentioned above, our Church is in the implementation phase of this Synod on Synodality. You’ll be hearing and experiencing more of what it means to be a synodal community of faith and discipleship in the months ahead, including how better to answer the call of Jesus to be disciples who make disciples—the very essence of evangelization.

Please jumpstart your experience of enhanced communion, participation and mission as a Catholic by attending the workshop on March 7 in Sellersburg.

See you there!
 

(Ken Ogorek is executive director within the archdiocesan Secretariat for Evangelizing Catechesis.  He can be reached at kogorek@archindy.org.) †