A newsletter devoted to the preparations of the 2014 Synod September 2013 • Volume 1, Issue 2
The Important Role of Laity in Preparing for the 2014 Synod By Randy Nohl, Chairperson Synod Preparatory Commission Our Holy Fathers Francis, Benedict XVI and John Paul II have all made clear the important role of laity: “‘Go and make disciples of all nations.’ … Three simple ideas: Go, do not be afraid and serve.” (Pope Francis at World Youth Day 2013) Lay people “must no longer be viewed as ‘collaborators,’ of the clergy but truly recognized as ‘coresponsible’ for the Church’s being and action thereby fostering the consolidation of a mature and committed laity.” “Make yourselves missionaries of Christ for your brothers and sisters, where they live, work and study or merely spend their leisure time.” (Pope Benedict XVI) “The lay faithful, precisely as members of the Church, have the vocation and mission of proclaiming the Gospel…” (Blessed Pope John Paul II) And so, when Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki announced plans for an Archdiocesan Synod to take place on Pentecost weekend June 7-8, 2014, he, too, was very clear in his desire that this be a gathering of “the faithful”– clergy AND lay people.
As he stated in the prologue of his recent Pastoral Letter, “Who Do You Say That I Am?,” “Our ultimate goal is for believers to renew their own spiritual fervor and reconnect to the supernatural source and transcendent power that has already motivated so many believers to build up the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, and indeed, change the world.” With that in mind, every parish throughout the archdiocese is being asked to hold a parish (or cluster) reflection session open to all parishioners in October or November 2013. These gatherings will reflect on Archbishop Listecki’s Pastoral Letter and then begin to identify pastoral priorities for the Synod. pastoral priorities for the future of the Church of southeastern Wisconsin. Feedback received at the parish sessions will be discussed further at The Synod planning starts with the District Gatherings in February and parish sessions, and input, especially March 2014 and ultimately at the Synod from lay people throughout the in June 2014. Lay people representing archdiocese, will be critical to this their parishes will join with clergy and process. I encourage you to check be a vital part of the district gatherings. with your parish to find out when Every parish will have a lay delegate participating in the actual Synod event. These delegates, along with priests, parish directors, deacons, parish staff members, other lay leaders, and representatives of religious communities, will discuss and discern
your parish reflection session will be held. This will be an exciting spirit-led process that will bear fruit for years to come in the archdiocese. You can find further information about the Synod and events leading up to it at www.archmil.org/Synod2014.htm