Listening Session - US Elections & the Church

October 20

You are invited to participate in Session #2 of Good Shepherd's Listening Session series for 2026-27.

The goal of this and every Listening Session is to share sacred space for authentic encounters with each other on ‘hot-button’ topics impacting our lives, communities, and the world. In this way we aim to support individuals and help communities experiencing harm to explore the experience together. Through these Listening Sessions we encounter Christ in one another, through communal reflection on Scripture, topical readings, prayer, attentive listening and discernment. Ultimately, we hope to build consensus without suppressing differences.
During large and small circle experience, you will be asked questions to explore issues on a deeper level. You will come together with people you may or may not know. In Listening Sessions you are responsible to listen and promise to be heard.
To prepare for this experience and to decide if you would like to attend, please reflect on the following:
- Am I prepared to listen deeply to those I may not agree with?
- Am I prepared to share my experience and perspective, even if others disagree with me?
- Am I prepared to sit in discomfort?
- Do I have an apprehension about attending and, if so, can I share it with someone?
- Will I be able to address the apprehension and still participate?
- Do I have support if I am unable to continue with the process?

Next, prayerfully and carefully read the articles provided below, and come prepared to share out. The questions we will discuss during this session are:
- Share your name, where you are from, and what brought you to this listening session?
- Which issues on the ballot are the most important to you? Why?
- How does the Church’s Social Teaching (CST), especially Solidarity and Social Justice, help us interpret the Christian response to this issue?
- How might an opposing view also still be in alignment with CST?

Encyclical Letter Magnifica Humanitas (sections 59-85)

Thank you for your interest in participating in this series of Listening Sessions at Good Shepherd Parish. Sessions are limited to 90 participants. Please register as soon as possible to reserve a spot. We are looking forward to these sacred conversations!

Valerie Ramos - valerie.ramos@comcast.net