In the second episode of “In Goodfaith”, hosts Stephanie Peddicord and Maggie Smith introduce us to the “Pathways to Discipleship,” a transformative framework designed to deepen the faith experience for individuals and communities. Drawing on years of research and first-hand experiences, they emphasize the need for authentic relationships and community-building in faith practices.
Accompaniment emerges as a crucial factor, described by Stephanie as “really walking with instead of talking to,” fostering a communal faith journey through deep listening and relational approaches. The concept of encounter is highlighted as a necessary first step that “breaks down barriers” and invites personal transformation through service and interaction with others.
Stephanie passionately discusses protagonism, a term inspired by Pope Francis, to describe an individual’s active role in their faith journey. This involves a deep understanding of one’s purpose and potential impact in the world, transcending mere leadership.
Moreover, the concept of spiritual imagination challenges believers to envision and work towards a hopeful future, even amidst current challenges. Stephanie articulately conveys this as the Catholic call to see “the world from a position of hope and of potential.”
Finally, the hosts advocate for a shift from a transactional to a transformational approach in ministry. As community leaders, they urge listeners to question, adapt, and innovate traditional practices, ensuring that they genuinely meet the spiritual and emotional needs of the modern church.
For listeners eager to deepen their understanding of this dynamic faith framework, this episode paves a profound path forward.
Key Quotes with Timestamps:
- On the Importance of Accompaniment:
- Stephanie Peddicord [00:22:24]: “What does that posture of deep listening look like? What does that posture of really walking with instead of talking to look like? And we we put a process and a tangible framework in place for parish communities to live that.”
- On Encounter as a Path to Entry:
- Stephanie Peddicord [00:25:16]: “We always lead with encounter. It breaks down so many barriers. It just opens young people up to perspectives and experiences and moments of discomfort in a way that in a way that nothing else does.”
- On Protagism and Leadership:
- Stephanie Peddicord [00:26:11]: “We were very specific about using protagonism. It’s Pope Francis’s word… it’s a deep knowing and lifelong exploration of who am I, what’s my place in this world, and who am I called to be?”
- On Spiritual Imagination and Hope:
- Stephanie Peddicord [00:36:34]: “How does it what an extraordinary thing that as Catholics, we are called even in our darkest moments of despair… to see the world from a position of hope and of life and of potential and of what could be.”
- On the Importance of Transformation vs. Transactional Faith:
- Stephanie Peddicord [00:44:16]: “As a church, we are very comfortable in doing what we’ve always done, whether or not it’s transforming hearts and minds.”
