Description
In October 2024, 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 influence the future of synodality, and address the themes of ten study groups established by the Pope in March 2024. The course will take place online. Together with experts from various fields, we will reflect on the topics of ten study groups to understand the importance of these themes concerning a synodal Church in mission and to get some knowledge about this complexity. Please note that it will not discuss the ongoing work of the study groups and their preliminary outcomes. The focus will be on understanding why and how important these themes are for the synodal Church.
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.
MORE INFORMATION AT: https://ku-linz.at/theologie/institute/pastoraltheologie/news/details/shape-the-future-of-synodality
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 KU Linz: February 7, 2025 – March 5, 2025 (guest registration until March 17)
- Students from KU Linz: standard registration procedure
- International students from KU Linz partner universities: free of charge. More information by Ruzica Romic from the International office KU Linz, r.romic[at]ku-linz.at
- Guest participants with a study confirmation requirement (transcript of records): 150 EUR for a course.
- Guest participants without a study confirmation requirement: free of charge.
All guest participants can register until March 17 by Adela Muchova, a.muchova[at]ku-linz.at
Literature
Eckholt, Margit (ed.). Synodality in Europe: Theological Reflections on the Church on Synodal Paths in Europe. Münste: LIT Verlag, 2024.
Final Document of the XVI Assembly, 26 October 2024, Rome, https://www.synod.va/en/news/final-document-of-the-xvi-assembly.html
Graulich, Markus und Johanna Rahner (ed.). Synodalität in der katholischen Kirche: Die Studie der Internationalen Theologischen Kommission im Diskurs. Freiburg: Herder, 2020.
Luciani, Rafael. Synodality: A New Way of Proceeding in the Church. New York: Paulist Press, 2022.
Moons, Jos. Synodality and the Roman-Catholic Church: An Academic Bibliography 2013-2024. 5th edition, February 2025, https://www.pastoralis.org/wp-content/uploads/pdf/documents/CITP_Doc_17_Moons_Synodality_bibliography_5thedition.pdf
Moons, Jos, and Kristin Colberg. The Future of Synodality: How We Move on From Here. Liturgical Press, 2025.
„Reframing the Understanding of Participation in Mission and Leadership in a Synodal Church: A A Research Project of the Peter and Paul Seminar.“ Studia Canonica, Volume 58, Issue 1
2024, https://poj.peeters-leuven.be/content.php?url=issue&journal_code=STC&issue=1&vol=58
Winkler, Dietmar W. und Roland Cerny-Werner. Synodalität als Möglichkeitsraum: Erfahrungen-Herausforderungen Perspektiven. Innsbruck, Wien: Tyrolia Verlag, 2023.
Wood, Susan. A Synodal Church: The Christian Faithful on Pilgrimage. Sheed & Ward, 2025.