Extracts from the Vademecum
- Written by Andrew Hornsby-Smith
Extracts from the Vademecum (handbook for the synod process) Extracts from the Vademecum
Introduction
In creating the opportunity for listening and dialogue on the local level through this Synod, Pope Francis is calling the Church to rediscover its deeply synodal nature. This rediscovery of the synodal roots of the Church will involve a process of humbly learning together how God is calling us to be as the Church in the third millennium.
Authentic discernment is made possible where there is time for deep reflection and a spirit of mutual trust, common faith, and a shared purpose.
…this journey together not only unites us more deeply with one another as the People of God, it also sends us out to pursue our mission as a prophetic witness that embraces the entire family of humanity, together with our fellow Christian denominations and other faith traditions.
Interview: Cardinal Scola condemns ‘harsh and insolent attacks’ against Pope Francis
- Written by Gerard O'Connell
In 1991, St. John Paul II appointed him bishop of Grosseto, a small Italian diocese, and then rector of the Pontifical Lateran University in 1995. In 2002, the pope named him patriarch of Venice, followed by cardinal in 2003. Pope Benedict XVI transferred Cardinal Scola to Milan in 2011 and, at his wish, Francis accepted his resignation in 2017.
In this exclusive interview with America’s Vatican correspondent, the cardinal spoke about some of the topics that he develops in depth in the book, including his close relationship with Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI, his joyful time as a bishop over 26 years and his concern at the decline of the Christian faith in Europe.
Significantly, he strongly defended Pope Francis against attacks from within the church and emphasized that “the pope is the pope,” stating that to attack the pope is to do harm to the church.
Read more: Interview: Cardinal Scola condemns ‘harsh and insolent attacks’ against Pope Francis
Advent Journey 2021 - Scottish Laity Network
- Written by Rab Burnett
Advent Journey 2021
Mary of Nazareth: Companion in our Journey
Evenings of Conversation – Reflection – Prayer
7.00 pm – 8.30 pm
See Online Events for more details and link for booking.
Download: Advent Journey 2021
Fr Gerry J Hughes SJ
- Written by Alex Walker
A Tribute from the Board of Trustees of ACTA
Fr Gerry Hughes SJ passed away on Tuesday 2nd November at the Jesuit Retirement Home at Boscombe. He often referred to himself as the “talking” Gerry Hughes to distinguish himself from “walking” Fr Gerald W Hughes SJ. Ordained to the priesthood in 1967, his life was to become the epitome of the cleric and academic. A lecturer and the Master of Campion Hall, Oxford marked out a life of distinguished scholarship. He was an author of a number of texts including, “The Nature of God” and the “Routledge Philosophy Guidebook to Aristotle on Ethics”. He was for some years the Vice Provincial of the British Province of the Society of Jesus.
Members of ACTA will know Fr Gerry as the former Spiritual Director to the organisation. He was a guide, a mentor and a friend to all who came to know him. His sharp intellect was married to a mild and whimsical character that was appealing and disarming in equal measure. He was never more at home than in the sharing of a simple lunch while discussion ranged across the many fields to which he had made such a contribution. He carried his learning lightly and was a born teacher
In the last few years, aware of his declining strength, he withdrew to the Jesuit centre at Boscombe.
Members of ACTA will remember him with gratitude for his guidance, with respect for his learning and with fondness for his convivial nature.
Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory!
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