Facilitating Conversations in the Spirit (formerly Synodality 101)
Autumn 2026 - MORNING SESSIONS
Session 1: Thursday 29th October 2026 - 7pm - 9pm (UK GMT)
Session 2: Thursday 5th November 2026 - 7pm - 9pm (UK GMT)
Session 3: Thursday 12th November 2026 - 7pm - 9pm (UK GMT)
Session 4: Thursday 10th December 2026 - 7pm - 9pm (UK GMT)
Please note: These are 4 sessions (2 hours each) over 4 weeks, with a break of some weeks before final session. You only need to sign up once for access to all the four sessions. The single Zoom link you will receive will work for the duration of the series.
Find out more about the course:
Methodology
This is an experiential course rooted in learning by doing. It seeks to embody the principles of synodality in its approach. The generosity of participants is encouraged in the sharing of experience and insights while learning about the process of Conversation in the Spirit. The sessions will therefore not be recorded.
Session Format
Each session will include:
Time for prayer, input, discussion and questions
Opportunity to connect with people across the world who are similarly seeking to enable synodality
A short break within the two-hour session
Programme Overview
Session 1
Foundational synodal principles
Conversation in the Spirit as a tool to enable synodality
Structure and dynamics of Conversation in the Spirit
Participate in or observe a Conversation in the Spirit
Reflect on the experience
Session 2
The role of the facilitator in the process
Insights from Jesus' ministry on attitudes and dispositions needed
Practical aspects of facilitating
Experience a Conversation in the Spirit with a focus on the role of the facilitator
Session 3
Opportunity to facilitate a Conversation in the Spirit
Group debrief, reflection and shared learning
A gap of some weeks follows to allow participants to reflect on and apply learning in their own contexts.
Session 4
Shared experience of applying learning in practice
Drawing out situations where Conversation in the Spirit may be useful
Addressing questions and challenges arising from real situations
Looking ahead: sustaining and supporting ongoing practice
Outcomes:
By the end of the course, participants will:
Have a good understanding of the structure and dynamic of the Conversation in the Spirit process
Be equipped with practical skills to facilitate Conversation in the Spirit
Have some understanding of how Conversations in the Spirit can be used in different settings
Participants who attend all 4 sessions will receive a certificate.
Participants will also be invited to join a bi-monthly get together by way of ongoing support (Synodality Lab).