In a previous article, I wrote about how we might apply the principles of synodality to conflict in the catechumenate process. In this article, I want to go a little more deeply into how we might accompany one another when conflict arises.
Deepening our understanding of synodality
To be honest, I don’t deal with conflict very well myself. However, I think it is important that as catechumenate ministers, we try to become more and more Christ-like when we experience conflict. As we have been looking at the overlap between synodality and catechumenate ministry these last several weeks, it might be fruitful to look at how deepening our understanding of synodality can help us maintain loving relationships in the midst of conflict.
The final document of the Synod on Synodality says that we are on “a path of spiritual renewal and structural reform that enables the Church to be more participatory and missionary, so that it can walk with every man and woman, radiating the light of Christ” (28).
The document, which Pope Francis declared to be magisterial teaching, emphasizes walking together, listening to one another, and discerning God’s will. This teaching resonates with the catechumenate, which is fundamentally a journey of accompaniment.
When conflict appears, embracing synodality helps us to discern the Holy Spirit’s guidance and encourages authentic listening and dialogue. Conflict often arises because I have one opinion or one way of doing things and you have another. If, in spite of our differences, we can learn to accompany one another, keeping an open mind and heart, without prejudices, and really listen to and hear each other, we can minimize the conflict we might experience. We don’t have to agree with one another. We simply have to embrace and accept each other in love.
This is not always easy, of course. And it becomes more difficult the more different the other person is from us. That is why it is imperative that we first practice synodal accompaniment with people we are comfortable with. Then, once we have learned better how to “walk with” each other, we can begin to accompany those more and more different from ourselves.
Pope Francis calls this the “art of accompaniment,” which is an openness of heart making genuine spiritual encounter possible. The emphasis on listening, dialogue, and inclusivity in synodality is, of course, at the heart of what we are training the catechumens to do.
Practical approaches
Here are some practical steps catechumenate teams and parish communities take to accompany one another in conflict:
- Practice being more open and self-aware: In order to accompany others effectively, we have to become more and more aware of what is going on inside of us. Some ways to grow our own self-awareness include journaling, examining our consciences, and regularly sharing our deeper thoughts with a trusted friend or loved one. In that sharing with loved ones, we have to remain open to and even invite their insights about areas we might improve our efforts at reaching out to and minimizing conflict with others.
- Practice respectful dialogue: This may be a bit of a stretch for some of us. Try reaching out to someone you know has differing views than you do. Ask them if they would be willing to have an open, honest, and courageous conversation with you. Try to practice active listening, responding with “I feel….” Statements instead of debating intellectual differences. Try not to interrupt when the other person is speaking. Again, you do not need to agree with the other person’s views. But you should try to find some point of unity and even joy in the person in front of you. This step requires a lot of humility and empathy, imagining yourself in the other person’s place.
- Deepen your connections: Synodality doesn’t have to be difficult. We can practice synodality in our everyday lives, such as when we have informal conversations or share coffee or a meal with someone. Have you ever had a simple encounter with someone during which you got the feeling the other person was deeply interested in everything you had to say? Try becoming that deeply interested person yourself. Try having more conversations in which you get to know the other person in a deeper, more connected way. These simple, low-effort, low-risk engagements teach us how to listen to others in more difficult situations when tensions might be high. They serve as a springboard for missionary action in the parish.
If we practice synodality in our everyday encounters, we, as a parish become more discerning and responsive to challenges.
Benefits for catechumens and the whole parish
These synodal approaches to conflict have powerful benefits. For catechumens, they provide a living model of the church, preparing them for active participation in our life and mission as baptized disciples.
The parish becomes more missionary by becoming more participatory and inclusive. It strengthens communion and unity as parishioners feel heard and valued, fostering a stronger sense of belonging. If we practice synodality in our everyday encounters, we, as a parish become more discerning and responsive to challenges.
Accompanying one another in the midst of conflict can be challenging. But if we embrace synodality and become better at walking with one another, no matter what, we can meet and overcome the challenges. For some of us, this might require a shift in mindset and a willingness to listen and dialogue, even when facing differing viewpoints. But the payoff will be a more vibrant, participatory, and missionary church, fostering deeper, lifelong conversion for all who journey in faith together. By navigating disagreements with courage and compassion, we will become a church that shines brightly with Christ’s light.
What are the takeaways for you?
How might the ideas in this article support your ministry with catechumens? Have you seen synodality make a difference in moments of conflict? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Coming This June: A Journey of Accompaniment and Mission!
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Embodying the Heart of Synodality through the Catechumenate
Join us as we explore what it means to walk with seekers and parishioners in a spirit of accompaniment.
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