Many people are wondering if there is a way to be in our society that is not divisive, but rather, unitive, a way that leads to everyone flourishing and not just a few winning.  Synodality, an ancient Christian paradigm for community, can provide just such a way. 

Authentic practices of synodality enable Christians to be a critical and prophetic voice over against the prevailing culture. In this way, we can offer a distinctive contribution to the search for answers to many challenges faced by our contemporary societies in building the common good. (Final Document: Synod on Communio, Mission and Participation, 47)

Jesus of Nazareth consistently interacted with others in a synodal key and offered himself as “the Way” (John 15:6a) for all to follow.  He did not just meet people; he encountered them.  Jesus prioritized mercy and inclusion, even though it led to his arrest and crucifixion. He listened to people’s desires and made decisions with them.  He ushered in, not a kingdom based on domination and violence, but a Kindom, where everyone is treated with dignity.  What’s more, he rooted all he did in deep listening to God, so that he made choices that supported God’s creative plan for the world, not his own ego.

This ground-breaking, three-part study will concentrate on the synodal way Jesus lived.  We will explore Jesus’ posture, practices and priorities through prayer, discussion, input from Bernadette, lectio and visio divina and song.  As Jesus changed the world, we will reflect on ways we too can change the world, not by destruction but by standing with others, healing relationships and hearts and loving beyond tribe and status.  Look at Gospel stories from the Christian Bible through a synodal lens, a lens that can lead to healthier communities where everyone flourishes.

Each session stands independently.  Come to as many as you are able:

Synodality and Prayer – Monday, June 15

• Humble Prayer: Jesus Blesses Little Children (Mark 10:13-16)
• Heart-Softening Prayer: The Agony in the Garden (Matthew 26:36-46)
• Unifying Prayer: Jesus’ Prayer for Unity (John 17: 1-5, 20-26)

Synodality and Participation – Monday, June 22

• Community Building: Raising of Lazarus from the Dead (John 11:1-44)
• Pouring out the Self in Love: The Widow’s Mite (Mark 12:41-44)
• Decision Making for Healing: Blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52)

Synodality and Boundaries – Monday, June 29

• Inclusion: The Canaanite Woman (Matthew 15:21-28)
• Priorities: The Parable of the Last Judgement (Matthew 25:31-46)
• Radical Forgiveness: Zaccheus (Luke 19:1-10)