Listening…really listening… is one of the most important life skills. Indeed, we compliment “good listeners”. We most often express the compliment when we can conclude that another has not only heard, but acted, on what they heard. It is a skill that is important in every aspect of our lives. We all know how to speak and express ourselves, but we all need to cultivate the skill and, might I say, the art of listening.
As many of you know, last year, we conducted numerous “listening sessions” here at Saint Helen as part of the Synod process initiated and driven directly from Pope Francis. We talked about the universal church as well as St. Helen. Many of your suggestions were either already implemented, being implemented or being discussed. And if they were not, they will be in the future.
Recently, we conducted some additional sessions which included individuals who we may not have necessarily heard from before. What an education! While they were relatively small groups, we met with both new and old parishioners in their 30s through their 70s. While some suggestions were very different from each other, there were some very similar ones. What was immanently clear is that everyone wants to feel like a welcome member of our community.
You may have seen some recent announcements about next steps from the Archdiocese announcing that they are conducting follow-up meetings. Eight sessions have been scheduled throughout Bergen, Essex, Hudson and Union counties. In fact, one session will be held right here at St. Helen on Thursday, June 22nd from 6:30-9:00PM. All are welcome, whether you participated previously or not. The Archdiocese wants to hear from everyone.
Please consider coming to one of these sessions, especially the one right here at Saint Helen. I have already registered for the one taking place here and look forward to hearing from others around our Archdiocese. There are already about 70 registered to attend the meeting here at Saint Helen. They want to hear us and so do I. Please join us.
You can use this link to register: sainthelen.org/synod
God bless you,
Msgr. Tom
