Eudesian Study Days 2023

The contributions of Saint John Eudes to current reflections on synodality

The Congregation proposes a new way of deepening the thought of St. John Eudes, because it is never finished! Various speakers from the Eudist family offer their reflections on the contributions of St. John Eudes. Although his thought did not directly address synodality as it is understood today in the Catholic Church, some of his teachings and approaches enrich current thinking on this topic.

Decentralization and shared responsibility: St. John Eudes encouraged the formation of small groups of priests and religious to live an intense community and apostolic life based on charity and solidarity. He promoted decentralization and shared responsibility, allowing the members of the community to participate actively in decision-making and in the governance of the community. This approach can be seen as an anticipation of the principle of synodality, which emphasizes collegiality and the participation of all members of the people of God in the decision-making and governance of the Church.

Listening and discernment: St. John Eudes also emphasized listening to the Word of God and discernment in the spiritual life. He encouraged his followers to let the Holy Spirit guide them in their decisions and to be attentive to the signs of the times and the needs of God's people. In a synodal approach, attentive listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit and pastoral discernment are essential to respond to the Church's current pastoral challenges and to discern together the paths of renewal and reform.

Collaboration among the members of the Church: St. John Eudes emphasized collaboration among the members of the Church, recognizing that each baptized person has a unique mission in the Church and must contribute to its growth and building. It valued the complementarity of each person's charisms and talents and encouraged collaboration among the various members of the Church, the laity, religious men and women, priests and bishops. From a synodal perspective, the collaboration and commitment of all members of the Church, especially the lay faithful, are considered essential for true participation in the Church's mission and for the collective search for solutions to pastoral challenges.