From February 16 – 19, Friars from across Canada along with two Franciscan Sisters and several lay men and women gathered for a weekend of Synodal listening and sharing at Mount St. Francis Retreat Centre. Varying in ages and backgrounds this diverse group leaned into what it means to be church today and to dream for the church. We considered the charism of the church, how we are called into communion and sent forth in mission. The following is the summary shared with the group.
We the church
we a reflection of the church; the church we love, know and desire,
we have gathered these past four days,
to listen, to respond, to dialogue, to be present to the Way.
We the church
have prayed together and sung together,
we have broken bread together at The Table (of the Eucharist) and at table,
told stories and shared ourselves trusting the support is stable.
We the church
who are diverse and unique reflections of the gospel,
for some of us have been longer on the journey,
while others are short on the journey.
We the church
hearing the heartbeat of God,
hearing the voice of Jesus,
hearing the invitations of the Holy Spirit.
We the church
have questioned where we are within the church
and what we are hearing on the road,
to notice how we bear each other’s load.
We the church
paid attention with compassionate hearts
to the truths of our brothers and sisters
how the Spirit can be heard through tears and whispers.
We the church
have pondered what it means to be synodal,
and how we are being promoted by the Spirit to be
allowing us to be open, honest and to keep Christ as key.
We the church
have cried in joy and cried in sorrow,
we have shared photos and treats
all while being at Mount St. Francis Retreat.
We the church
have played new games and snacked,
and have enjoyed the diversity of language
each of us called to be on pilgrimage.
We the church
have walked the land and breathed in the fresh mountain air
the richness of creation speaking gospel truths too
holding on to what is beautiful, honest and true.
We the church
female, male, laity, religious, straight, gay, prophets and mystics,
old friends or new friends found,
we build up together on fertile holy ground.
We the church
sisters and brothers have spoken of age and life,
have heard the church and her cries
for life, dignity, hope and to rise.
We the church,
challenged and celebrating,
seeking and serving,
know the Spirit is always surging.
We the church
vulnerable, the story of humanity
community, the story of belonging
one body, one heart seeking and longing.
We the church
humble, tangible, welcoming, walking together
discerning, open, grace-filled, creative and willing,
bold, courageous with Christ in the journey thrilling.
We the church
with St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi
and countless women, men and children are
rebuilding the church
filled with grateful hearts,
renewed in faith, hope and love,
we will not be afraid
because we are
loved by God,
centered in Christ,
inspired by the Holy Spirit,
sent out in mission.
We the church say Amen!
We the church say Amen!
We the church say Amen! Amen!
Ubi Caritas Et Amor, Deus Ibi Est.
