The global Church has been on a continuing journey towards synodality.
But often, one character tends to be missing from conversations.
A new short course delivered by the Diocese of Parramatta will explore the role that Mary, the Blessed Virgin, continues to play in the development and direction of the Church in the 21st Century.
Presented by Qwayne Guevara, Manager – Catholic Youth Parramatta, the free course will be held on Wednesday evenings throughout September, and will be inspired by her recently obtained Master’s degree from the Clough School of Theology and Ministry, Boston College, in the United States.
“A big part of my research, discernment and reflections whilst studying had been around synodality – what it is for our world today? Where are we going with it? But also, what aspects have we not been able to deeply reflect on?” Qwayne said.
“Exploring what it is about Mary, who she is and how she showed up in Scripture reveals to us elements of synodality that we can learn from and live out in our context today.
“We will touch on a pillar of Marian theology in relation to synodality – looking at her disposition, receptivity, collaborative nature, active obedience and humility.
“The nature of women to be nurturing, gathering, non-judgemental, willing to sit in suffering without needing to fix it – these elements are important for exploration into synodality.”
Qwayne presenting a talk on the Australian Catholic Church at Boston College. Image: Supplied
The four sessions will place a real focus on dialogue and discussion, allowing the participants to share quite openly and honestly.
Qwayne recognises that although the formation is being offered through Catholic Youth Parramatta, it will be accessible and worthwhile for people of all ages.
“I’ve been taken by the call to hope in this Jubilee Year and what hope tells me is that God still has more to reveal to us and has more that He wants us to experience.
Qwayne Guevara, Manager – Catholic Youth Parramatta, speaks during the anniversary of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan in August 2025. Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta
“Young people are craving formation, and I hope that this is an impetus to start asking questions about their own sense of leadership in the life of the Church, as inspired by Mary.
“For older participants, I hope the course provides a sense of inspiration that even if they have seen it all, even if they feel they’ve experienced it all – God still has more to offer.
“I’ve been fortunate to witness the Church’s willingness to form lay people. There are many opportunities for us as lay people to be formed, and what a gift it is to be able to contribute back to our communities.”
You are warmly invited to register for the free ‘Mary and Synodality’ formation sessions on Wednesday 3, 10, 17 and 24 September at the Bethany Centre, the Diocese’s Chancery Office in Parramatta. Please visit parracatholic.org/maryandsynodality
The short course aligns with the priorities of Formation, Mission and Community in the Diocesan Pastoral Plan.
