Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1478604
The parish is called to be a place of synodality, of journeying together with the people where the fire of faith is shared and becomes contagious. True accompaniment comes from walking with someone to know Jesus and the parish must be the source of accompanying, especially with those who are alone, wounded, rejected and broken. The model of accompaniment came up in many contexts through- out our discernment. For instance, in order for parishes to be truly welcoming, it is not enough to have someone greet people at the door. Rather, people must take newcomers under their wing and help them find their home in the parish. Families also need accompanying, especially those who are in difficult circumstances. All fam- ilies, however, need accompaniment, as a common desire was to have fami- lies mentor families. Finally, regarding equipping for mission, participants at both the parish gatherings and the Archdiocesan Discernment Event expressed a desire to know their gifts and charisms and how they can use them for mission. This is best discov- ered and taught through personal accompaniment. The fourth key theme that emerged was accompaniment. Parishes should be places where disciples are equipped to live their mission and vocation. In particular, the laity is called to be the protago- nist for our Church today in the sanctification of the world in Christ Jesus. To prepare disciples for this, the clergy is called to help the laity know their gifts and charisms explicitly and find ways for their formation according to an apprenticeship model. Participants expressed desire for formation in the practical aspects of how to share the faith, joy and love of Christ with others. The fifth key theme was the desire to be equipped for mission. 32 SEPTEMBER 2022 | DENVER CATHOLIC