A Call to Rebuild....

In his book: "St. Francis & the Voice from San Damiano", Micheal De La Bedoyere writes:

Repair My House

“Particularly dear to Francis was an ancient chapel long allowed virtually to  fall into ruins, dedicated to  San Damiano. In it hung a Byzantine wooden crucifix, painted in red, gold, and blue. It did not represent the tortured Christ of later art; but the large, open, dark eyes of the Crucified looked down with a haunting vividness. It was a striking example of the early painted crucifixes, and it is strange that it should have survived the neglect of the chapel.

Before it, Francis loved to pray for the light which would shine through the darkness of his mind. As he looked up one day, he saw the lips of the Christ move, and he heard the words, “Francis, you see that my house is falling down; go and repair it for me.”  

Pope Francis has convened a Synod or a Gathering of the Church throughout the world.  We are called to engage one another and listen to one another with hope that we can appreciate and engage more fully in the mission of the Church. We are to Journey together in the power of the Holy Spirit.    He reminds us that even in our differences and polar opinions, and even conflicts we can experience what it is to be Church.  

In this same spirit we are call to engage and reflect on particular questions.  A summary of our responses will be submitted to Archbishop Lori and he will send a summary from the whole Archdiocese to the Synod of Bishops.  

So, here at St. Ambrose you will have a number of avenues to respond, Fr. Paul and members of the Synod committee will gather all our ministries for a time of reflection, There will also be larger gathering to be held after mass in the church for those of you who would like to attend and finally this online options.  

You may take part in one or all of these options as long as your voice is heard in kindness, openness and charity.  

You will notice that we are asking you that you identify yourself and provide us your email or phone number.  Discerning together cannot be done anonymously. It requires that we meet and know each other and respect each other’s thoughts and opinions.  

For those wanting  to reflect online.          
Please quietly reflect on the six areas to the right, stop at whichever question speaks to you, you may reflect on one, a few or all.