FROM COLLABORATION TO COMMUNION, A RENEWED CHURCH IS ENERGIZED

Catholics

are partway through two processes aimed at revitalizing their faith: the international Synod on Synodality and the U.S. Eucharistic Revival.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops notes on its website that the synod began in 2021 and its intent has been to reflect on the journey that has been made since the 1960s Vatican II renewal and help the church “live communion, achieve participation, and open herself to mission.”

Catholics contributed to wide-ranging synod discussions during 2022, addressing various aspects of church life. In 2023 the U.S. bishops released a report synthesizing what American Catholics said. Find it in English and Spanish at tinyurl.com/USCCBSynthesis.

Next, bishops from around the world, who conducted similar consultations, will meet in Rome in October 2023 for the first of a twopart discussion. Organizers hope the process of the synod will help cultivate greater openness, a welcoming atmosphere, and more collaborative leadership in the Catholic Church. Learn more about the synod at synod.va.

The Eucharistic Revival, launched in 2022, will culminate in a Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis July 17-21, 2024. “It’s our mission to renew the church by enkindling in God’s people a living relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ in the holy Eucharist,” states the event website.

The revival has involved catechesis, prayer, resources, processions, Eucharistic Adoration, and more. Organizers intend the revival to rejuvenate the faith of the U.S. Catholic Church so that believers will go forth energized to serve and evangelize. Details are at eucharisticrevival.org.

Sister Elizabeth Liebert, S.N.J.M. has written several books and articles on Christian decision-making, including The Way of Discernment: Spiritual Practices for Decision Making. She serves in formation ministry for her community, the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary.

ALL EXPERIENCE, and hence, all information for vocation discernment and other types of decision-making, must come to us first through our bodies.