(c) 2024

Synodality calls the Church to listen, understand, and act in a way that embraces people in the spirit and style of Mary, an exemplar for the process of synodality. Mary, “she who knows the way,” shows us how to accompany others, foster greater communion and participation, and renew our focus on our baptismal mission.

My new book, Marian Approaches to Synodality, presents Mary as a model for discernment, especially as we prepare for the next phase of the Synod on Synodality. During the month of May, let us turn to Mary for guidance and inspiration. As we continue with this “great symphony of prayer,” encouraged by Pope Francis in preparation for the Jubilee of Hope in 2025, let us ask Mary to pray for the needs of the Church, that the Holy Spirit will inspire all leaders to move in accordance with God’s will.

Marian Approaches to Synodality is available for purchase through Paulist Press and Novalis Publishing. I am grateful to Sister Nathalie Becquart, Vatican Undersecretary for the Secretariat of the Synod, for her foreword.