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Dear Friends in Christ,
One word a growing number of Catholics are learning about these days is the word “Synod.” Not a new word but a very old one that means a gathering to discuss, listen, and discern the will of the Holy Spirit for the church. Pope Francis has called the church to become more synodal in the way we gather to share our faith, hope, and love in Christ. What does that mean?
A synodal Church.... ...is a listening Church ...is a Church of encounter and dialogue ...desires to be humble and knows it must ask forgiveness and has much to learn ...is open, welcoming and embraces all ...is a Church of discernment ...offers a prophetic witness to a fragmented and polarized world. From the Instrumentum Laboris (Working Document for the Synod)
Many of you have participated in the synodal listening sessions we have held at St. Bridget’s, including earlier this summer to discuss the Partners in the Gospel strategic planning process. One of the themes mentioned repeatedly in synod listening sessions near and far, is the desire and hope for women to have a greater role of leadership in the life of the church. We have an opportunity to reflect on that desire and hope as we gather to celebrate “St. Phoebe Day.” She was a deaconess in the early church, a collaborator with St. Paul, and a leader of the Christian Community in Corinth. Her official feast day is September 3, but we will gather to celebrate her legacy at weekend Masses on September 9-10. Most of the ministries of our Masses will be offered by women, including the homily/reflection by Manon Cypher, a member of our Pastoral Council.
The present consideration of expanding the role of women in our church includes a growing discussion about the possibility of ordaining them to serve as deacons. It is a possible topic of discussion at the upcoming synod in Rome where for the first time, dozens of women will be voting members in making recommendations to Pope Francis about church life. Let’s pray for that and bring our hopes for the church to our upcoming parish synod listening sessions on October 1&3. All are welcome!
St. Phoebe…pray for us! Live Jesus in our hearts…forever!
Fr. William Heric, Pastor
