The Archdiocese of Baltimore will host its first public discussion session for its Seek the City to Come initiative Oct. 17 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Archbishop Curley High School in East Baltimore.
It will be the first of six regional “open prayerful discussions” as part of Seek the City to Come – the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s community-based initiative created to reimagine Catholic life in Baltimore City and in some surrounding county parishes.
The discussion welcomes all who have an interest in Catholic life in Baltimore, specifically members of the parishes of the churches that are involved in Seek the City, community members and all who are interested in where the church is heading in the future.
The Seek the City initiative was unveiled Sept. 29 by Archbishop William E. Lori. The two-year listening and discernment process will focus on the 57 parishes in the city and a few near-in parishes in Baltimore County, with the goal of more vibrant ministry. The process will include six to 12 months of listening, including site visits to every parish; four to six months of discussion to envision the future; and four to six months to discern the next steps.
“We are really excited to have this opening discussion,” said Geri Royale Byrd, project lead for the archdiocese who will guide the process along with Auxiliary Bishop Bruce A. Lewandowski, C.Ss.R. “We want to bring all of the ideas and creativity to the table to help shape the future of the church in the city.”
Byrd said the discussion “will be guided by the Gospel” by following the parameters of church teachings, Pope Francis’ call to mission and discipleship, Archbishop Lori’s pastoral letter, “A Light Brightly Visible,” and past experiences.
Byrd said she anticipates 75 to 100 people attending the event. “We’re hoping for a good turnout of not only the parishes involved, but other civic leaders, church neighbors and community partners,” she said.
The archdiocese encourages the public to bring thoughts, ideas and voices to the discussion at Archbishop Curley High School, 3701 Sinclair Lane, Baltimore, 21213.
There will be plenty of parking, refreshments, light snacks, prayer and reflection.
For more information, visit: www.seekthecity.org, email seekthecity@archbalt.org or call Geri Royale Byrd at 410-547-5318.
Email Gerry Jackson at gjackson@CatholicReview.org
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