S12 E21 - Christifideles Laici Chapter 2: In All Branches of a Single Vine

Abiding Together

In this episode, we continue with part two of our study on Christifideles Laici. We chat about unity within the Catholic Church, the role of your local parish, and the importance of community. We reflect on how easy it is to focus on the differences we encounter instead of the beauty of its complementarity and rich diversity. We discuss the need to restore the culture and how participation in our parish communities can build communion and encourage others to develop an authentic love of Jesus.

Heather’s One Thing - Family photos taken by Laura-Anne

Heather’s Other One Thing - The song Pure Abbie Gamboa from Upper Room

Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The Godsplaining Podcast with Fr. Gregory Pine

Michelle’s One Thing - Lavender Lemonade and Lavender Lemonade Cupcakes (Gluten Free Version Here). This is the lavender syrup I used.

Discussion Questions:

• What is your investment in your local parish?
• How have you engaged with the Church with a consumerist mentality?
• Where in my heart do I fall into divisive thinking about the Church?
• What gifts and charisms is God inviting you to use in service of the Church?

Journal Questions:

• How have I experienced communion with my parish and the Body of Christ at large?
• Am I allowing the gifts and preferences of others to be seen in the lens of complementarity?
• Am I praying for communion and revival within the Church?

Quotes to Ponder:

'Communion' speaks of a double, lifegiving participation: the incorporation of Christians into the life of Christ, and the communication of that life of charity to the entire body of the Faithful, in this world and in the next, union with Christ and in Christ, and union among Christians, in the Church" (Christifideles Laici Paragraph 19)

A member of the lay faithful "can never remain in isolation from the community, but must live in a continual interaction with others, with a lively sense of fellowship, rejoicing in an equal dignity and common commitment to bring to fruition the immense treasure that each has inherited. (Christifideles Laici Paragraph 20)

Scripture for Lectio:

“Abide in me and I in you” John 15:4

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