Weāre excited to announce that our latest article, where we apply Sacred Listening in a Catholic context is out now. āResearch-Backed Practices to Engage Youth in a Vibrant Catholic Church: The Case for Implementing Sacred Listening Practices,āĀ has just been published in the Journal of Moral Theology! This piece tackles a question close to our hearts: How can the Church build real, lasting trust with youth, especially in todayās fast-paced, low-trust world?
Hereās a look at the article:
š¬ What is Sacred Listening Theory?
Sacred Listening Theory goes beyond the usual dialogue. It calls for a deep, intentional engagement with every personās story, seeing each as a unique reflection of Godās image, or Imago Dei. This isnāt just listening; itās honoring and responding to the dignity of the other. It aligns with Pope Francisā call to a more inclusive, participatory Church,
š ļø Tools for Engagement:
We outline practical Sacred Listening Tools, like Mapping Trusted Relationships, designed to meet youth where they are, build trust from the ground up, and create spaces where their voices matter. Drawing from social science, these tools also address the shifting dynamics of authority, helping pastoral leaders navigate modern ministry challenges.
š± Relational Trust over Institutional Authority:
In an era where young people may distrust institutions, we propose a ministry model that centers on relationships. Sacred Listening creates genuine bonds, prioritizing the Churchās pastoral outreach as a way to strengthen community and engage meaningfully with young people.
In short, Sacred Listening invites a new approach to pastoral care, one where empathy, active listening, and trust-building pave the way to a more vibrant, inclusive Church. šš« So, if youāre looking for actionable ways to strengthen your community or better connect with youth, this article is for you!
You can read the full article in the Journal of Moral Theology. Letās continue building a Church that truly listens. šš¬
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