Repairers of the Breach: Addressing the Crisis of Communion Between Priests & Bishops

Product Description

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Overview

The Catholic Project report, the National Study of Catholic Priests (2022), sponsored by The Catholic University of America (CUA), recognized a crisis of communion between bishops and priests. This webinar discusses the need to address the global problem of polarization and division and suggests ways for clergy and laity to work toward a greater experience of communion at all levels of the Church.  While the topic originated from this CUA study of priests and bishops, the webinar focuses on a way forward that will benefit all members of the Church.

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About the Presenter

Rev. David Songy, O.F.M. Cap., S.T.D., Psy.D., is a priest of the Capuchin Province of Mid-America, a clinical psychologist and author of Spiritual Direction for Priestly Celibacy. He is the immediate past President of Saint Luke Institute and currently serves as a contract member of its clinical team. Previously, he worked as a professor and formator at several diocesan seminaries, including the Pontifical North American College in Rome and St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver. Fr. Songy holds a doctorate in psychology from the University of Denver and a Doctorate in Sacred Theology from the Teresianum, the Pontifical Institute of Spirituality in Rome. He holds a Master’s Degree in pastoral counseling from Loyola College and theology degrees from Aquinas Institute. Fr. Songy speaks Italian, Spanish and Tok Pisin, the language of Papua New Guinea. He is an international speaker on topics such as priestly spirituality, initial and ongoing formation for ministry, living the virtue of chastity, and affective maturity.

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Learning Outcomes

1. To review the elements of the Catholic Project Report that suggest a crisis in communion.
2. To contrast current thought that induces greater polarization and individualism in society with the Christian understanding of communion.
3. To suggest methods for moving forward in the Church to bring about a greater experience of communion.

Reflection Questions

1. Have I experienced a lack of communion in my relationship with a religious authority?
2. What has been my experience of and reaction to polarization in society?
3. What is my experience of division within the Church? How does it affect me personally?