Envisioning the New Frontiers for Going Forward

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Join us for the 2023 Advanced Missionary Discipleship Formation Program, presented by the the Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers, in partnership with the Maryknoll Lay Missioners, Maryknoll Sisters, Maryknoll Affiliates, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns. This year's program, led by Fr. John Sivalon, M.M., will focus on "Missionary Disciples on the Margins: Celebrating Ten Years of Joy of the Gospel, Envisioning the New Frontiers for Going Forward." Don't miss out on this opportunity to deepen your understanding of missionary discipleship and explore new ways to make a difference in the world. Join us from Monday, August 21 through Friday, August 25, 2023.

We can't wait to see you there!

This seminar is currently full for those requiring lodging however we are accepting applications for local people who can commute daily at reduced suggested donation.  Sign up below to get more information.

 

Join us in this five-day experience as  we  contemplate the journey  of missionary disciples over the past ten years since Pope Francis invited the Church through “The Joy of the Gospel.”


The signs of the times challenge missionary disciples to reflect on the deep questions of what is mission today, how do we respond to the epical changes in our world, and how do we as a church journey together ?


If you are looking for a space to rest from the weariness of the journey, a space to contemplate the difficult questions and a community with whom to envision the “new creation” , this workshop is for you!


In the words of Pope Francis, “ I am a mission on this earth…” (273) We invite you to a personal and collective pause on  the evolving journey of missionary disciples! 

Our Presenters (click on an image to read their bio)

Using the See Judge Act methodology of EG, this seminar will:

  1. SEE:  Examine the peripheries of the past ten years that have challenged Missionary Disciples, particularly in the areas of migration, care of creation and global justice with an emphasis on the impact of the pandemic and the emergence of digital gathering and social media.  Through the lived experience of the seminar participants and input from experts we will explore the challenges or inspirations that have emerged regarding the social, political, economic and spiritual margins that impact missionary discipleship. What have we and others at home and around the world observed and experienced from Covid, geo-political conflicts, political and religious polarizations, climate change, environmental crises, etc.?
  2. JUDGE: Using EG, and other documents that developed out of it, including the two encyclicals of Pope Francis, Fratelli Tutti and Laudato Si, the participants will explore the emerging and evolving theological and spiritual resources coming forth from the encounter at the margins and the transformative impact of missionary discipleship through these encounters.  Where and with whom is the Spirit speaking today?  How has the Spirit spoken through the synodal process of walking together and in our dialogues?  How is the Spirit inviting us to new perspectives and understandings of love, justice and peace?  How is the Spirit inviting us to healing and transformation at the margins of Church and society?
  3. ACT:  Based on what we have observed through the lens of theological reflection and emerging spiritualities, participants will discern where and with whom, the Spirit is directing missionary disciples to go forth next in our encounters at the peripheries, whether at home or around the world.  We will discuss the challenges and opportunities presented and to creatively develop frameworks for a response to them.  What are new wine and new wineskins needed now and into the future for the practice of missionary discipleship?

To apply, submit the form below.

Dates: Monday August 21 to Friday, August 25, 2023 starting on Monday at 8:30 a.m. PT (arrival on Sunday August 20th for those traveling.) Last session will conclude after lunch on Friday. 

Location: Maryknoll Mission Center

23000 Cristo Rey Drive, Los Altos, CA 94024   Learn more about the Mission Center here.

The suggested donation for this program is $500.  If you are accepted to participate, you will be asked to make a $100 deposit to hold your spot. Covers private rooms with attached bath, delicious meals and program. We understand the financial constraints on those working for the Church and those affected by Covid-19, so if the cost is burdensome, please contact Dr. Walter Hidalgo at: whidalgo@maryknoll.org or 914-570-4118 Ext. 4118 for scholarship possibilities or more information. Maximum number of participants is 15.

Prerequisite: Fundamental understanding of the Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium and the lived experience of  missionary discipleship.  Preference given for previous participation in Missionary Discipleship formation programs, immersive experiences, and pastoral theological reflection.

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