When I think about the complexities of a world-wide Church, a Church that must embrace so many cultural differences, I sometimes wonder about our human interpretations of things. When I hear about political events that sometimes “stretch” a truth, I wonder about our human ways of governing. When I think about the complexities of nations at war, I sometimes even question our humanity.
But today I read a quote from Pope Francis, as he talked about the ongoing synodal process in the Church, and I was reassured that our humanity is exactly that, human, and that we need to give more credence and time to God’s part in human history. We need the hope that our faith can offer us. Here is the quote from Pope Francis:
“Synodality is not about going after votes, as a political party would. It is not about preferences, about belonging to this or that party. In a synod, the principal figure is the Holy Spirit. He is the protagonist. So you have to let the Spirit lead things. Let him express himself as he did on the morning of Pentecost.”
MISEVI International has chosen a synodal approach to our upcoming Extraordinary Assembly that will be held in Bogota, Colombia, April 3-6, 2024. There are presently 18 National Associations of MISEVI (Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvado, Egypt, Ireland, Lebanon, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, United States and Venezuela), each of which has already begun a process of listening to all of the members of their Associations. Our process begins with this initial opportunity for members to express their understanding of their role as missionary disciples of MISEVI, and is followed by several virtual meetings with the leaders of each of the countries.
Every step will lead to an Extraordinary Assembly, where representatives and Spiritual Advisors from each of the National Associations will continue the discussions and the molding of MISEVI as a Vincentian international organization. It is exciting to be part of this synodal process, and it is heartening to hear Pope Francis reminding us that the Holy Spirit will be leading. In our humanness, it is sometimes difficult to let go and allow the Spirit to work. Please pray for us as we journey toward the unknown outcome of such a process. And we, too, will continue to pray for the bigger synodal approach of our Church, led by Pope Francis (and the Holy Spirit!)
This article is great MRY Fran
Thanks for your membership in MISEVI and your Spirit of Vincent and Louise shared so well with so many.
I have always enjoyed being in contact with you and Bill,.
Many Blessings
Sr. Teresa Daly