Refections on Synodality  

 

As both the Irish and universal church prepare for the upcoming synods, the committee of Cork Scripture Group is conscious of the words of Pope Francis:

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“Do everything so that the journey rests on listening to and living the Word of God. Let us be passionate about Sacred Scripture, let us allow ourselves to be dug into by the Word, which reveals the newness of God and leads to loving others without tiring”

Homily for Word of God Sunday, January 23, 2022.

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With the focus very much on Sacred Scripture we are offering some reflections on texts that speak to us of synodality. We will send out one each week during Eastertide. We have not attempted to be comprehensive but merely offer some texts and reflections that hopefully will trigger some ideas of your own. We are reminded of the words from the Preparatory document: “We recall that the purpose of the Synod, and therefore of this consultation, is not to produce documents, but ““to plant dreams, draw forth prophecies and visions, allow hope to flourish, inspire trust, bind up wounds, weave together relationships, awaken a dawn of hope, learn from one another and create a bright resourcefulness that will enlighten minds, warm hearts, give strength to our hands”” (#32).

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Prayer of Pope Francis for the forthcoming Synod on Synodality

 

Come, Holy Spirit! You inspire new tongues and place words of life on our lips:

keep us from becoming a ‘museum Church,’ beautiful but mute, with much past and little future.

Come among us, so that in this synodal experience we will not lose our enthusiasm,

dilute the power of prophecy, or descend into useless and unproductive discussions.

Come, Spirit of love, open our hearts to hear your voice!

Come, Holy Spirit of holiness, renew the holy and faithful People of God!

Come, Creator Spirit, renew the face of the earth! Amen.