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Second consultation meeting in Estonia

Sunday, October 24, 2021 (16:50)

Raphael sent his report of our yesterday meeting to all the participants. As this was not meant as an input to the Synod, I just quote some excerpts:

First of all, it was really nice to meet and know you yesterday evening.

To summarize this meeting, Luc started by an introduction on the etymology of synodality. (…)

There had been a reading of the fundamental questions and Luc then explained what was expected from the participants until March. Regarding the deepness of the questions, it was commonly agreed that it was impossible to treat them in 1h00 and that we all needed a structure. It has been therefore decided that we would organise a meeting every week from 16h00 to 18h00 just before the Saturday mass to cover 1 question, which means 10 weeks of reflection.

The 30th of October would be the first meet of the international community in Tallinn. Depending on the number of participants (it had been mentioned that a discussion on such deep topic would be impossible if we were 20), maybe different groups could be organised, of which maybe a French speaking one.

I answered to the group of participants:

I will try to come to the first “independent” meeting on next Saturday at 16:00, this time as a participant, not as the moderator. I am very grateful, Raphael, that you show motivation for taking responsibility and organizing things in a style that will be different from mine (“Understanding the concept of a co-responsible Church: To value and involve the unique role and vocation of each member of the Body of Christ…” (source))

Is it correct that I was the only “fan” of Francis while all other participants are rather sceptical regarding his general direction? This is of course an exciting topic. It was very good for me to hear opinions from real people (reading opinions on Internet is not the same). My advice: try to find people who are “pro-Francis” and try to discuss with them in a synodal way, listening carefully to each other without prejudice, and speaking in a way that the other can start to understand why you have your opinion. For example Didier’s words about the two dimensions of the communion (physical and spiritual) helped me to better understand why you have your opinion. This synod (2021-23) is not about what went wrong after Vatican Council II (which is indeed an important topic that needs discussion), but this synod is about how to discuss about hot topics. We try to collect real-life stories about the dialogue between people having very varying opinions. There will be sad stories (failures) and joyful stories (successes).

Raphael responded:

No, no, don´t worry, you were definitely not the only “pro Pope Francis”, I just believe that we do not know each other, that most of us were in observation mode but that the next meeting will free some speakings and that many positive things are going to happen.

I am already looking forward to be on Saturday! Thanks again for your implication Luc, and for initiating this movement!!