Dear Members and Readers,
It is my pleasure to present the November-December 2024 issue of the SEDOS Bulletin. This edition draws inspiration from the recently concluded Autumn Seminar on the topic of “Intergenerational Living for Mission.” In an era of increasing diversity, fostering meaningful connections across generations is vital for advancing our shared mission. The seminar highlighted how the wisdom of elders and the creativity of youth can harmonize to strengthen mission-oriented living. This issue builds on those insights, offering reflections that encourage us to embrace intergenerational dialogue, mutual learning, and cooperation as pathways to a more inclusive and mission-focused future.
The issue opens with Mary Barron, OLA, SEDOS President’s Address. She invites participants to reflect on the synergy between generations. She emphasizes the importance of intergenerational cooperation, rooted in the wisdom of the elders and the creativity of youth. She also highlights the fruitful partnership with the International Association of Catholic Missiologists (IACM), recalling the spirit of dialogue and cooperation experienced during the Synod on Mission.
In her talk, Judith Carmel Lynch, FMM, addresses “Intergenerational Living for Mission: Community Life of Missionaries.” Drawing from her missionary experience, she explores intergenerational living as both a challenge and an opportunity, rooted in God’s kaleidoscope of diversity. She highlights how communal life, shaped by faith and respect, fosters cooperation and nurtures values such as unity and shared humanity, embodied in the African spirit of Ubuntu.
Joseph Jeyaraj Swaminathan, SDB, in his presentation speaks of “Psycho-Spiritual Perspectives for Intergenerational Living for Mission.” He examines the interplay of psychological and spiritual dynamics within intergenerational communities. Using Scripture, theology, and psychology, he explores how diverse generations can cooperate to fulfil Christ’s mission, emphasizing the importance of discernment, mutual enrichment, and living in communion.
Roberto Catalano, Secretary of IACM, speaks on the theme, “Perchè non dialoghiamo? Dialogo nella Chiesa e nella Missione.” He reflects on the complex relationship between dialogue and proclamation in the Church, drawing on the Teaching of Pope Francis and of Benedict XVI. Roberto Catalano stresses the need for humility, rejecting absolutism, and embracing unity without compromising identity, likening truth to fragments of pottery held together by the Church.
Paolo Trianni, in “Sinodalità e Interculturalità: Culture e Missione nel Futuro della Chiesa,” explores the Church’s evolving mission, emphasizing synodality and interculturality. Inspired by Pope Francis’ focus on communion and participation, Prof. Trianni highlights the need for a creative, inclusive approach that engages with diverse cultures and religions. He calls for a dynamic, outward-facing Church that embraces dialogue and serves as a universal home for all.
Linda Pocher, FMA, in her presentation, “In ascolto delle donne: Il cammino con il Papa e il Consiglio dei Cardinali,” reflects on her role in a training program for the C9 on women’s contribution to the Church. Between December 2023 and June 2024, experts critically examined topics such as Church power dynamics, gender relations, and women’s access to ministries. The initiative, supported by Pope Francis, resulted in four volumes on how to promote dialogue and transparency, and embody the Church’s commitment to renewal and inclusivity.
The issue concludes with a summary of the Seminar by Roberto, highlighting the event’s discussion on intergenerational and intercultural mission. Over 90 participants explored the psychological, spiritual, and social dynamics of community life. The afternoon sessions addressed mission, synodality, and women’s roles in the Church. The Seminar fostered a spirit of fraternity, dialogue, and shared vision for missionary work.
As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of intergenerational living, let us be inspired to build bridges of cooperation, ensuring a more inclusive and mission-driven Church for the generations to come.
Dr. John Paul Herman, SVD
Editor, SEDOS Bulletin
