Archbishop Hartmayer has encouraged us to actively participate in a process called a synod. He recently stated in a pastoral letter, “Pope Francis opened a two-year process called the Synod on Synodality (For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission) that will uniquely engage not only Catholics but God’s people all over the world. I want to personally encourage you, your family, and all those who are dear to you to join with me and our brothers and sisters in north and central Georgia on this extraordinary journey of faith.”
He stated, “A synod is a ‘journeying together’- a shared journey of prayer, listening, and discernment. When we engage in this process, we go back to the very roots of what it means to be Christians as a pilgrim Church together on the way, following Jesus who is the way. What’s more, this synod aims to reframe our journey forward.”
He advised us to “Look for opportunities to participate in a listening session or contribute to a survey and to join us in prayer, study, and reflection as we journey together. As we continue our Eucharistic Renewal, I invite each of you to spend time with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, praying that this Synod with bear abundant fruit.”
We plan to have a series of listening sessions in February and March at our parish. Two sessions will be open to all parishioners and guests. Additional sessions will be targeted to specific ministry groups within the parish. The sessions, approximately two hours in length, will include an opportunity to listen to Archbishop Hartmayer’s homily on the Synod, participate in small group discussions, and make appropriate comments. The sessions will also provide us with an opportunity to discuss how we can more effectively embrace and share our precious Catholic faith.
The format of our sessions will be focused on our Parish Vision Statement and our Parish Mission Statement. A summary of our approach to this process as well as details on the format and relevant questions for consideration are included in this parish bulletin.
In addition, all parishioners, especially those who cannot attend one of the conferences, will be invited to participate in an online Archdiocesan survey on the Synod.
Our approach to this Synod will be coordinated by Deacon Henry Hein. He will be assisted by Rosemarie Scully and other staff members and volunteers. Please contact the parish at synod@saintbrigid.org if you have any questions or require additional information.
Please prayerfully consider participating to the extent possible in this special time of grace.