James McEvoy is a priest of the Archdiocese of Adelaide and teaches theology at the Australian Catholic University, Adelaide. Below is his presentation at the gathering held at Thebarton Community Centre, Torrensville on October 29 2020.

1. Synodality, Francis stresses, is not simply another structure—that would do little by itself. In Laudato Si’ and in other places, he rejects “functionalism” and “the technocratic paradigm” in the church and in church reform. This insight has a corollary in the struggles of contemporary Western culture (as Faggioli notes [ITQ, p. 18]): one of the signs of this time is the deep distrust that people have of institutions, even democratic and ecclesial institutions. Only participation which engages people’s deepest self-understanding and concerns, and which does not alienate them, will overcome such distrust.

Dear Sisters and Brothers

Grace and peace I hope that this note finds you well.

I am writing to inform you of two important gatherings that are occurring over the next few months.

Thursday October 29 2020, 7:30pm-9:30pm

Thebarton Community Centre
Corner of South Road and Ashwin Parade
TORRENSVILLE

BOOKINGS: https://www.trybooking.com/BLTNS

Everyone is welcome.