Shape the Future of Synodality
Description
In October, the second session of the World Synod of Bishops concluded. We will explore how the future of synodality can be shaped. We will examine the outcomes of the second session, gain insights into how different continents are shaping the future of synodality, and address the themes of the 10 working groups established by the Pope to address specialized topics during the Synod on Synodality focus on critical issues relevant to the Church. The course will take place online, as we will invite experts from the Synod and participants from the 10 working groups to share firsthand perspectives on how the future of synodality is envisioned in various contexts and how the topics of the 10 study groups support this work.
Course Schedule
The course is designed as a chance for an international exchange: students from various partner universities of KU Linz worldwide are welcome to participate in this online course (3 ECTS available to registered students). The sessions occur online on Wednesdays, between March 19 and June 25, 2025, from 14:15 to 16:00 CET (08:15-10:00 am EST; 10:15-12:00 am BRT; 9:15-11:00 pm HKT). Online access will be provided to registered participants.
Course Program
13 sessions run between March 19 and June 25, 2025. The complete program will be confirmed before the beginning of the course.
| Session | Themes and Speakers
|
| 19. March 2025 | Introduction Prof. Klara Csiszar (KU Linz) Dr. Adela Muchova (KU Linz)
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| 26. March 2025 | Church and the synodality Prof. Paul M. Zulehner (University of Vienna)
|
| 2. April 2025 | Synodality worldwide Prof. Catalina Cerda (South America) Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David (Asia) Mrs. Gabriele Eder-Cakl (Europe) Prof. Anthony Pogorelc (North America) Bishop Victor Thulani (Africa)
|
| 9. April 2025 | Some aspects of the relations between the Eastern Catholic Churches and the Latin Church (Group 1) Prof. Gabriel Hachem (Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Lebanon)
|
| 30. April 2025 | Listening to the cry of the poor (Group 2) Prof. Maria Cimperman (Catholic Theological Union, USA)
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| 7. May 2025 | The mission in the digital environment (Group 3) José Manuel de Urquidi (Juan Diego & Co / Evangelization Lab / Juan Diego Network)
|
| 14. May 2025 | The Reception of the fruits of the ecumenical journey in ecclesialpractices (Group 10) Prof. Robert Svaton (Palacky University Olomouc, Czechia)
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| 21. May 2025 | Theological criteria and synodal methodologies for shared discernment of controversial doctrinal, pastoral, and ethical issues (Group 9) Prof. Carlo Casalone (Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome)
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| 28. May 2025 | The role of papal representatives in a missionary synodal perspective (Group 8) Archbishop Michael W. Banach (Apostolic Nuncio to Hungary)
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| 4. June 2025 | TBC |
| 11. June 2025 | The revision of the Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis Sacerdotalis in a missionary synodal perspective (Group 4) Prof. Andrew Recepcion (Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome / Pontifical Philippine College)
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| 18. June 2025 | Some theological and canonicalmatters regarding specific ministerialforms(Group 5) Prof. Anna Rowlands (Durham University, UK)
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| 25. June 2025 | Conclusion Prof. Klara Csiszar Dr. Adela Muchova
|
Learning Outcomes
- Participants will understand the significance of synodality within the Catholic Church.
- Outcome Analysis: Students will analyze key themes and insights from the second session, identifying critical issues addressed.
- Global Insights: Learners will explore how different continents influence the future of synodality, appreciating diverse cultural contexts.
- Expert Perspectives: Through interactions with Synod experts and working group participants, students will gain firsthand insights into synodal futures.
- Application of Knowledge: Participants will reflect on applying insights in their communities, promoting collaboration and inclusivity.
- Critical Thinking Development: The course will foster critical thinking about the challenge and opportunities in implementing synodal practices.
- By the end, participants will be equipped to engage thoughtfully with the future of synodality.
Grading Policy
Examination & Grading for students (3 ECTS): Scientific essay on one of the chosen topics (6.000-8.000 characters).
Registration Information
Registration period: February 7, 2025 – March 5, 2025
- Students from KU Linz: standard registration procedure
- International students from KU Linz partner universities: free of charge
More information on student registration can be provided by Ruzica Romic from the International office KU Linz,
- Guest participants: 150 EUR for a course. The interested persons shall contact a course coordinator Adela Muchova, from the Institute of Pastoral Theology KU Linz,
Should anyone wish to attend the whole seminar and is unable to pay the fee, please get in touch with the Vice-rector for Teaching, Research, and Internationalization for financial support: Prof. Klara Csiszar,
Literatur/Literature
Dietmar W. Winkler, Roland Cerny-Werner: SYNODALITÄT ALS MÖGLICHKEITSRAUM, Erfahrungen-Herausforderungen Perspektiven, Innsbruck 2023
Markus Graulich, Johanna Rahner: Synodalität in der katholischen Kirche, Freiburg in Br. 2020
Margit Eckholt: Synodality in Europe, Theological Reflections on the Church on Synodal Paths in Europe, Münster 2024