Dr. Paul Lakeland, Director of the Center for Catholic Studies, will lead a conversation about the challenges and opportunities presented by the papal call for a synodal church.

“Synodal” is a strange word for most people, but the reality it represents it as the heart of Pope Francis’s vision of the church of the future. A synodal church is one in which all the members of the church, from the pope to the person in the pew, are in frequent dialogue about their hopes and wishes. So the Pope has called for a two-year process of preparation in the local and national churches for the 2023 Synod of Bishops in Rome.

But what are the chances he will succeed in his vision of a synodal church? The pope has many critics and not a few not-so-secret opponents, even in the Vatican, and the U.S. Catholic bishops include a number who are openly resistant to his plans. So, what’s wrong with a synodal church, that arouses this kind of opposition?

Bring your thoughts and your questions to this presentation, which will leave lots of time for question and comment.

For more information visit the Catholic Studies website.

Location: Aloysius P. Kelley Center, Presentation Room (location update*)

Free but registration is suggested. If they are attending, include your Fairfield student(s) in this registration number.