Synod Reflection

"The Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church"

The task the CBS has been faithful to for 17 years is expressed in our Mission Statement: "To promote an understanding of the importance of the Bible to the life of God's people and to engage students in a critical, reflective and prayerful study of the Word of God that will contribute toward a living and productive faith."

In October 2008, leaders of Episcopal conferences and other representatives have gathered in Rome at the request of Pope Benedict for a Synod to discuss "The Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church". The special emphasis was on evangelization and ecumenism. This word is the common ground for all Christians and is a basis for ecumenical dialogue. The living word of God adapts, without loss of its truth, to the life and cultural diversity of all people. The word is not to be studied simply for its historic value, but should be looked to as a source of guidance for our present and our future; challenging us, inspiring us, guiding us and giving us reason to have hope.

Someone said to me that what they are discussing in Rome is precisely what the CBS is doing in Buffalo!

There is a significant relationship between religious education at every level, RCIA, and worship and the Bible! Experiencing the beauty and efficacy of the Word of God to empower every area of ministry within our Church is what the Synod was about and what the CBS is about. Access to the living word of God is not only "our entitlement and birthright as human beings; they are our privilege and gift as children of the living God ". (from a Vespers homily given at the Synod by Patriarch Bartholomew 10/21/08)

Quoting from St. Gregory the Great, Pope Benedict said at the conclusion of the Synod that "Scripture grows in the life of the one who reads it." As we encounter the reality of our individual lives, we can learn how to draw strength and wisdom from Scripture and we will begin to see the hidden riches and graces the word of God brings to our life.

Clearly the coming months will see more information coming to us as a result of the Synod. We will be discussing this in classes and posting important information on our web-site. It is a great hope that the word of God will enkindle a fire within the hearts of God's people. Those who study in the CBS know this and have experienced it for themselves.

For more information consult http://www.zenit.org