The Holy Father Pope Francis invites the entire Church into a journet of faith called the Synod on Synodality. In this Holy Spirit-led initiative, Catholic around the world will reflect on a theme that is decisive for its life and mission: “It is precisely this path of synodality which God expects of the Church of the third millennium.”
The Synod on Synodality is a two-year process of listening and dialogue beginning with a solemn opening in Rome on October 9 and 10, 2021 with each individual diocese and church celebrating the following week on October 17. The synodal process will conclude in 2023.
Here in the Diocese of Shreveport, we will host listening sesssions for all parishioners. Then, Bishop Francis Malone will gather information from each parish's individual listening sessions, and ultimately send the findings to Rome. What an opportunity to voice your concerns about the Church and be part of the synodal process!
Our mutual goal is to renew and restore our capacity to love and listen. You are a valuable member of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament parish! As such, you are warmly welcomed to join your fellow parishioners for an in-person listening session where, guided by the Holy Spirit, we will reflect, share, and listen to one another .
Session #1 on Wednesday, February 16, at 6:00 pm
Session #2 on Tuesday, March 15, at 6:00 pm
Session #3 on Tuesday, March 29, at 6:00 pm
Session #4 on Tuesday, April 19, at 6:00 pm
Click (here) to view Bishop Francis Malone's introduction to the Synod on Synodality. How Pope Francis has inaugurated the Synod of Bishops - a gathering of the faithful on a pilgrimage, inspired by the Holy Spirit. The entire process starts at the parish level, where the bishops of the world challenge the people entrusted to their care to share with one another their views on the church.
Click (here) to view Bishop Francis Malone's concise video entitled "What is the Synod." In this video, the bishop addresses common questions, and encourages all parishioners of the Diocese of Shreveport to participate.
We stand before You, Holy Spirit, as we gather together in Your name. With You alone to guide us, make Yourself at home in our hearts; Teach us the way we must go and how we are to pursue it. We are weak and sinful; do not let us promote disorder. Do not let ignorance lead us down the wrong path nor partiality influence our actions. Let us find in You our unity so that we may journey together to eternal life and not stray from the way of truth and what is right. All this we ask of You, who are at work in every place and time, in the communion of the Father and the Son, forever and ever. Amen.