Synod Journey Blog

"Count your blessings!" When we do, how often do we do so in terms of things: I own a nice home, a nice car, I have a secure job, a nice nest egg, etc., etc., etc. The Beatitudes in today's gospel ( Matthew 5:1-12a ) assess blessings in an entirely different way, as attitudes and behaviors that are a sign of the presence of God's kingdom. Even more: the Beatitudes identify us as God's primary blessings in the world: Blessed are the poor in spirit... Blessed are those who mour

We are to be people of the light, whose way of living reveals that "The kingdom of heaven is at hand."

When it comes to what is most important to us -- recognizing Jesus in our midst -- we cannot expect quick results...

'"We must approach discernment with 'indifference,' a readiness to accept God's will, whatever it may be." 

"In pilgrimage, the 'middle' is the transendent part."

"Christians are called to walk at the side of others, and never as lone travelers."

Prayer, and in particular reflection on the word of God, is an essential part of the synodal process.

We are moved beyond taking for granted that what is given us is owed to us when we grow in the kind of mutual sharing that deepens relationships.

Faith is measured not by problems solved but by being obedient servants of God.

Listening opens us to a much wider world, and develops in us attitudes of compassion and care.

Let us pray for faith that believes in the Triumph of the Cross.

Renunciation brings abundance; calculation ensures fidelity.

It is only right relationships that lead to fulfilling our deepest longing: presence at the everlasting wedding banquet.

by Mark Hoggard We live by the clock. Time is money. We calculate time minutely because of overfilled schedules, too little sleep, too...

by Mark Hoggard A guilty pleasure of mine is a show called " Storage Wars ," where folks bid on abandoned storage lockers, and search for...

Paul's words in the second reading (2 Timothy 4: 6-8, 17-18) for the Solemnity of Saints Peter & Paul spell out concretely how baptism plunges us into living the paschal mystery.

Pope Francis led us all to the re-discovery of the sacredness of listening to others, of genuine dialogue and accompaniment.

The Church is like an Oreo cookie: two firm pieces holding together that amazing middle, full of the Body of Christ, sweet nourishment!

Coffee and conversation about what breaks our hearts and fills our hearts about our Church is an act of hope!

Leading change is a challenge. But with the Holy Spirit and some tools, we can begin to embrace synodality.