The Risks and Opportunities of a Synodal Church with His Eminence Marc Cardinal Ouellet

In this episode, I am joined by His Eminence, Cardinal Marc Ouellet, former Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops and author of Word, Sacrament, Charism: The Risks and Opportunities of a Synodal Church.

Drawing on decades of leadership within the Church—including his roles in seminary formation, global episcopal appointments, and multiple synods—Cardinal Ouellet brings a deeply theological and pastoral lens to one of the most debated processes in the modern Church: synodality.

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

• The theological and spiritual roots of the Synod on Synodality
• Cardinal Ouellet’s reflections on why synodality must begin in faith, not function
• The risks of reducing the Church to NGO logic
• How Mary, Mother of the Church, is the true archetype of synodality
• The need for both hierarchical leadership and charismatic creativity
• What lay people can do to live out the Church’s mission with fidelity and joy

This Episode is For You If You’ve Ever Asked:

• What exactly is synodality—and why is the Church talking so much about it?
• How do we walk together without compromising truth?
• What role do lay people play in a “synodal” Church?
• How can we discern the Holy Spirit in communal dialogue?

Resources Mentioned:

• Word, Sacrament, Charism: The Risks and Opportunities of a Synodal Church — Available at Ignatius Press
  
  

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