We live in a time of polarization and change in almost every facet of our lives. Each of us experiences this in unique and different ways. Yet, there are threads we are all invited to maneuver and reconcile.
In March 2025, Pope Francis described our times as “polycrisis.” He explains: “Polycrisis evokes the dramatic nature of the historical juncture we are currently witnessing, in which wars, climate changes, energy problems, epidemics, the migratory phenomenon and technological innovation converge. The intertwining of these critical issues, which currently touch on various dimensions of life, lead us to ask ourselves about the destiny of the world and our understanding of it.”
Pope Leo suggests the way we are called to respond to this multitude of problems is to learn how to confront them together. Naming and wrestling with them together, he suggests, is more important than the exact solution. “The aim is to learn how to confront problems…This is a fundamental aspect of our attempt to build a ‘culture of encounter’ through dialogue and social friendship.”
We all come to The Basilica of Saint Mary from a host of experiences and challenges in our daily lives. We bring our fears, pains, and burdens along with our hopes, joys, and celebrations.
One of the incredible gifts of our Basilica of Saint Mary community is understanding we are a “big tent” parish community—with people from all sides of the political, social, ecclesial, and economic spectrum coming together to worship, learn, and grow. We may sit side-by-side with educational, legal, or business leaders. We may sit side-by-side with those living in homeless encampments. I have witnessed both groups express ownership and affection for The Basilica community and seek to protect and advance it in ways they are able.
The diversity of a “big tent” parish can be an asset for us. It can also raise flags of division. How can we, as a faith community, identify and set aside our personal fears and judgements and place ourselves in a position to accept the other—to help all feel like they belong?
The Basilica has an opportunity and an obligation to press into the possibilities for encounter across difference—difference in all spheres. We can do this by listening to one another through informal and formal ways. Pope Leo tells us listening is at the heart of communication. Listening calls us to attend to the humanity of the other—to recognize their inherent dignity and their uniqueness.
The Basilica will offer intentional opportunities to engage together—to listen and learn from one another over the next few months.
On October 25th we invite you to a transformative workshop led by national leaders in restorative justice: Restoring our Humanity: Finding our Way Home through Restorative Justice. This interactive workshop is organized to cultivate healing and community as we engage in active dialogue and learning together.
This fall we will offer opportunities to gather in small groups to discuss the book Cherished Belongings: The Healing Power of Love in Divided Times by Fr. Greg Boyle. Fr. Boyle invites us to hear and share stories highlighting the transformative power of compassion in individuals and communities.
Basilica St. Vincent de Paul invites you to gather with other parishioners and those who are unhoused on Saturday mornings. This Side-by-Side program focuses on personal wellness and building connections.
The Basilica offers opportunities to listen, learn, and share experiences about the role of women in the Church, the challenges of climate justice, experiences of migrants in our community, and accompanying people coming out of the criminal justice system. Look for ways to engage in these activities and conversations.
The fact that The Basilica has parishioners across the wide political, social, and economic spectrum is a gift to be embraced. While this will not always be easy, we can practice and learn ways to connect and bring these experiences and skills beyond our walls into the greater community. We can hasten healing rather than further trauma and division. And we do this trusting that God is present—now and always, through every moment of our journey.
Peace, Janice Andersen
Director of Christian Life