Margaret Beaufort Institute to host series on Synodality

Sep 29th, 2021

Dr Peter Coughlan

A three part miniseries on Synodality will take place at the Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology in Cambridge.

The aim of these three talks will be to illustrate, within the theological/ecclesiological background of Vatican II, the significance and potential of the topic chosen for the next synod - for a synodal Church: communion, participation and mission. The talks will take account of Pope Francis' recent decision that a synodal process of three phases - diocesan, continental, and universal - should begin in October 2021 and culminate in the synod of bishops in October 2023.

The Course Leader will be Dr Peter Coughlan, formerly Under-Secretary of the Vatican's Pontifical Council for the Laity, and a visiting lecturer at Heythrop College, University of London, on Environmental Ethics and on Ecclesiology/Ecumenism. He has also lectured in recent years at the Margaret Beaufort Institute for Theology, Cambridge.

The series takes place online on October 6, 13 and 20 October 2021 from 4 - 6pm

Session One on 6 October will focus on: Synods in Christianity today: synod in first and second millenniums: a rapid contrast.

The challenges faced by the nineteenth century Catholic Church: impact on Vatican 1. 'Roman' centralisation, in tension with currents of change up, and into Vatican II. Vatican II: major theological/ecclesiological developments: conciliarity. Paul VI: establishes the synod of bishops - why? how? papacy in transition

Session Two on 13 October will focus on: Experiences of the early synods: positives and negatives.

The 1985 synod called to celebrate 20 years after Vatican II: strengths/weaknesses. Underlying theological tensions; synods partly 'on hold', a degree of stagnation. Pope Francis: 'collegiality' within 'synodality' central to reform/evangelising agenda.

Synods on family, 2014/2015: Church understood as the holy, faithful people of God.

Session Three on 20 October will consider Pope Francis' synod vision.

It will look at: Pope Francis' address, 17 October 2015, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the synod of bishops 'Path of synodality which God expects of the Church in the third millennium'. Sensus fidei of the baptized; sacramental ministry in service to communion / mission. Pope Francis' three key words for the synodal process: parrhesia (boldness), mutual listening, and discernment. Three phases plan: diocesan, continental, and universal, 2021 to 2023.

What for the future? Developing synodality: witness/dialogue/proclamation in world.

COST: £50 FOR ALL THREE SESSIONS.

LINK

Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology - www.mbit.cam.ac.uk