A newsletter devoted to the preparations of the 2014 Synod March 2014 • Volume 1, Issue 5
District Gatherings Mark the Next Phase of Synod Preparatory Efforts The next phase of the Synod preparatory efforts – in the form of listening and prayerful dialogue – has been underway in Archdiocesan District Gatherings since February. A “district” in the archdiocese is considered a geographical area – perhaps a specific county or region of the archdiocese – consisting of a select number of parishes. Each parish is sending up to10 representatives to be a part of the District Gatherings.
district comprises approximately 8-16 parishes. District Gatherings are taking place through the end of March, on Saturdays, with a full-day agenda. Here’s a summary of what is being covered at District Gatherings: Welcome and Opening Prayer Video: Alive and Well: The Faithful Affirm the Church
This video captures the essence of what took place at the Parish Sessions. “Here, discussion and discernment is Archbishop Jerome Listecki and Bishop taken to the next level,” said Rich Harter, Donald Hying both speak about the wonderful aspects of our Church and director, Evangelization Office and the feedback they heard in the areas of member of the central office planning Word, Worship and Service. Individuals team. “It’s at the District Gatherings where we are challenging the faithful on from a few parishes give witness to the fruitful ministries of their parish and the what will strengthen the mission of the archdiocese and speak about where we Church and how we can foster greater can strengthen our mission. All faithful intentional discipleship.” are encouraged to view this video: www. There are a total of 15 districts in the archmil.org/Synod2014/Videos.htm Archdiocese of Milwaukee, and each
See Efforts, Page 3
Eight Background Papers Help to Shape District Gatherings Background Papers on eight areas of the Church’s mission have been written, and are being used as information to help shape the discernment and discussion at the District Gatherings. Bishop Donald Hying has written an introduction for each background paper which focuses on intentional discipleship. The topics include:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Catholic Social Teaching Cultural Diversity Evangelization Formation Leadership Liturgy Marriage and Family Stewardship
Each background paper discusses current cultural realities, theological foundations and issues to be addressed and considered, specific to each topic. Synod Background Papers can be found at http://tinyurl.com/ ArchSynodPapers.