Have you heard of the Culture of Encounter? It runs as a theme throughout Pope Francis’ Joy of the Gospel. The premise is that we are called to solidarity with all people because all are sisters and brothers with the same Creator God. This seems self-evident to most believers and quite simple. However, this one truth of our faith has the power to change our perception, attitude and actions entirely.
The Culture of Encounter for Christians begins with a daily encounter with Jesus.
I invite Christians everywhere, at this very moment, to a renewed encounter with Jesus. I ask all of you to have this encounter unfailingly every day. No one should think this invitation is not meant for him or her. #3 Joy of the Gospel, Pope Francis
Having begun the day with this meeting with Jesus, Pope Francis encourages us to meet others where they are, with genuine respect, even if there are major differences between us.
After we grow to know and respect the “other”, it is time for dialog. This is not the same as debate or a hidden agenda of bringing the other around to my way. It is holding our own truths deeply while listening with openness to others. It also requires good will on both sides. We may end up with the same differences after a genuine dialog, but we will remain sisters and brothers and not label the other as the adversary.
Finally, real encounter and dialog is meant to lead to communion. This is Jesus’ deepest and final prayer for us at the Last Supper: “That they all may be one as you, Father, are in me and I am in you.” (John 17: 21)
We have a short time now before our national elections. Current politics seem to divide us into camps and adversaries. “We’re” right and “they” (our sisters and brothers?) are wrong! What if each of us prepared for the election with this attitude of the culture of encounter, open to genuine dialog for the sake of the common good? Would it make a difference?
