1.“Led away on foot by their enemies … ” Led or chased are we experiencing this today as well as in the time of Baruch? Where is the hope for the refugee suffering in exile today? Can you help God lower “the lofty mountains” or “fill the depths and gorges” for them in any way? How?

2. God gave Jerusalem the name “the peace of justice, the glory of God’s worship.” How does this name fit the Church today? If poorly, what would you do to make it fit? What would you like God to name your parish, your community, you?

Second Reading
Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11

1. As you remain on the path or The Way, St. Paul says, “then the one who began a good work in you will complete it.” Who is the instigator of the good work in you? Whom do you trust, yourself or God to complete your good works?

2. “And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception, to discern what is of value.” How might the synod Pope Francis called help the Church discern what is of value? Can the synod be God “beginning a good work” in the whole Church right now?

[God’s] word summons us to discernment and it brings light to that process. It guides the Synod, preventing it from becoming a Church convention, a study group or a political gathering, a parliament, but rather a grace-filled event, a process of healing guided by the Spirit. In these days, Jesus calls us, as he did the rich man in the Gospel, to empty ourselves, to free ourselves from all that is worldly, including our inward-looking and outworn pastoral models; and to ask ourselves what it is that God wants to say to us in this time. And the direction in which he wants to lead us.

Opening of the Synodal Path
October 10, 2021

Gospel
Luke 3:1-6

1.  Why does Luke name the historical references in the beginning of this Gospel reading? Does it help you to locate John the Baptist in history books?

2. “All flesh shall see the salvation of God”? What are the implications for humanity in this saying? Is the entire world included in this plan? What are the implications for you? Do you watch all year round for God’s coming? What are some of the ways God comes to you everyday?