In the September issue of America, Tim Busch, the founder of the Napa Institute, described one effort to help lessen polarization in the U.S. church. He hosts dinner gatherings of “prominent Catholics from across the ideological and theological spectrum” to have civil conversations. “It is hard to hate someone who has shared a meal with you,” Mr. Busch wrote. “It is even harder to convince someone of your own position if you have never even spoken to them.” His proposal drew a range of comments from readers.
I agree that Catholics of all persuasions need to talk to one another and find common ground. Where they do this doesn’t matter to me. My personal preference would be for this to happen while volunteering at a local charity, but I could see it happening at the park, school or child’s play group. Anywhere two or more are gathered in his name, Jesus is there.
Margaret Burch
Thank you, Mr. Busch. I don’t agree with very many of your views on the church or politics, but I deeply respect your efforts to bridge the divide through food and conversation. It’s a model that should be shared in parishes and Catholic groups throughout the country.
Bruce Daigle
I appreciate Mr. Busch’s effort to have dinner with other people of faith who have a view of the faith that differs from his view. Some Catholics seem focused on church teachings about legalized abortion, homosexuality and gender ideology, while others focus on church teachings on care for the poor, the stranger, the environment and the dignity of all people including those on death row. Dialogue among people of faith with different views may help all of us remember aspects of the faith we do not usually think about or emphasize.
Tim McCormick
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. In this case, the journey is seeking to fulfill the request “That they all may be one.” To quote a former boss, “Look for the good.” What better way to build respect for each other’s God-given dignity than feeling a person’s faith journey and breaking bread? Reminds me of the road to Emmaus.
James Engler
What he proposes is exactly Pope Francis’ synodal process for discussing our faith and our different understandings of how we live that faith out. This is exactly how we approached our synod discussions in our parish. As long as everyone is open to hearing the stories and experiences of others, to step into their shoes and see how they have walked with God, as long as people respect one another’s faith experiences, then this is a great process. It would be wonderful on the parish level as well as the diocesan level. But participants must understand it is about experiencing faith in others, not winning the discussion or proving their own beliefs are superior.
Peter Devine
The author lost me at the word “prominent.” I am still wondering who qualifies as prominent and why.
Jill Caldwell
I would love to have the opportunity to share a meal and conversation with others who view things differently than I do. I wish all parishes had such a program.
Barbara Schell
Some of the reader comments seem to have missed the point and simply perpetuated the differences and disagreements. They are verging on ignoring the phrase “we can disagree without being disagreeable.” Instead, look at Mr. Busch’s account as a wonderful example of synodality—of allowing oneself to listen to others, especially those with whom we disagree. This would never have happened a few years ago. I am grateful to those who accepted the invitation even if it went against the grain. Let’s all try to find some good in people and examine our own consciences about how destructive our critiques of others can be.
Bridget Taumoepeau
