Formation is necessary to sustain synodal culture, spirituality

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

As I continue to reflect on themes that are presented to us in the Instrumentum Laboris (Working Document) for the Synod of Bishops on synodality in Rome Oct. 4-29, 2023, it’s clear that “adequate formation” is necessary to sustain a synodal culture and spirituality in the way we organize ourselves to carry out the Church’s mission.

Without the kind of formation that truly shapes our minds and hearts and spirit to conform them to Christ, we cannot effectively proclaim the Good News to others. We are all called to be missionaries—to carry the Word of God to people and places that are foreign to us (even if they are very close to home). As the Synod’s Working Document makes clear:

A synodal culture and spirituality are needed animated by a desire for conversion and sustained by adequate formation. The need for formation is not limited to the updating of content, but has an integral scope, affecting all the abilities and dispositions of the person, including mission orientation, the ability to relate and build community, willingness to listen spiritually, and familiarity with personal and community discernment. Also necessary are patience, perseverance, confidence and freedom in speaking the truth (parrhesia). 

It takes great patience, and perseverance, to share with others truths that are uncomfortable or that threaten the status quo. That’s why preparing for missionary discipleship involves so much more than just intellectual formation. Evangelization is more than knowing the right things to say. It involves knowing the people and cultures that we are evangelizing, listening to their cares and concerns, accepting others as God’s children (even when they say and do things we disagree with). We cannot effectively share the Gospel message unless we have accepted it ourselves and have acknowledged before God our own inadequacy as co-responsible leaders and evangelists.

As missionary disciples of Jesus Christ, we must seek ongoing conversion of life and be open to changing the way we see things and do things so that we can be faithful to our calling. This does not mean sacrificing anything of substance or “watering down” what we believe. On the contrary, it means being willing to speak the truth boldly with respect for the dignity of those who don’t share our beliefs—never imposing anything on others, but always confidently and unapologetically inviting others to consider prayerfully the liberating power of God’s Word.

Continue reading Cardinal Joseph Tobin’s latest newsletter.