Dear Friends,
As I mentioned in my homily last weekend we had a perfect opportunity to pick up on the reading from 1 Corinthians and the Gospel of Luke to address the SYNOD and our role in it.
Saint Paul emphasized the theology of our baptism reminding us just as the human body is made up of many parts so too , the Church, the Body of Christ, is made up of many parts. And Luke recounting the Lord in His home Temple sharing from the prophet Isaiah that He is the anointed one of God reminds us we are anointed as well are called to share in Christ's ministry.
This Synod 2021 - 2023, called forth from Pope Francis is a gathering for people on the same path. It is an invitation to come together and share, reflect and listen to one another addressing ten themes. These themes for our contemplation invite after prayerful reflection and guidance of the Holy Spirit a response of our prophesies, visions, and hope.
The overall theme of our Synod is "communion, participation and ministry". It is about the body of Christ coming together to nourish us in unity and purpose.
The ten themes have guided questions to enable our thoughts and discussions among one another. It is not a time to debate but share with one another where we are in our journeying together in this present moment.
We would like you to join us for in house sessions and opportunities for you to do it on your own, with family, friends and even folks who may not be Roman Catholic.
Some of our in house sessions will take place after masses during the month of February.
On February 6th and 27th, Saint Catherine of Siena will meet for one hour after the 10:45 mass. The themes to be viewed on February 6th are "Speaking Out" and "Celebrating". On February 27th the themes will be "Co-Responsible in the Mission" and "Discerning and Deciding".
Then at the Church of the Transfiguration on February 12th after the 4 PM mass the themes will be "The Journeying Companions" and "Listening". On February 13th after the 8:45 AM mass the themes will be "Celebrating" and "Speaking Out". On February 19th after the 4 PM mass the themes will be "Co-Responsible in the Mission" and "Discerning and Deciding". On February 20th after the 8:45 AM mass the themes will be "Forming Ourselves in Synodality" and "Authority and Participation".
You may pick up at both parishes printed materials addressing these themes in preparation for the gatherings. You also may go on Saint Catherine of Siena's website www.saintcath.org or the diocesan website www.dor.org/synod to see all ten themes and the guided questions.
Both websites have further details about the Synod.
Please consider your participation with our parishes.
If you have any questions please contact me or anyone on either Parish Staff.
It is an exciting opportunity to bring us together as faithful disciples!
Be well, healthy, and blessed,
Father Rob