USD Conference Systems, Theology International Conference 2025

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Synodality and The Jubilee: a Study of “Seeking God’s Face" in The Psalms
Genesis Frances Misa Toledo

Last modified: 2025-03-11

Abstract


Pope Francis calls Christians “Pilgrims of Hope” as he opens the Ordinary Jubilee 2025. This inauguration coincides with the Church being more invigorated with the Spirit of Synodality as a way of life—a journey to discern God’s will. Quoting Psalm 27, the Pope invites Christians to “hope in the Lord.” This Psalm urges the listeners to “seek the face of God,” a theme also found in other parts of the Old Testament. The researcher aims to investigate if “seeking the face of God” can be related to Synodality. To establish this, the researcher first studies the historical background and meaning of the phrase “seeking the face of God” in the Book of Psalms. This involves an analysis of the context and usage of the phrase within the Psalms, exploring its implications. Furthermore, the researcher seeks to determine if “seeking God’s face” is the same as “doing a pilgrimage in life.” This involves examining the concept of pilgrimage as an image of the Christian journey and how it aligns with the idea of seeking God’s will. Finally, the researcher examines the significance of this hope in the Synodal process, considering how the act of “seeking God’s face” can enhance the Church’s collective journey towards unity and discernment of God’s will. This study aims to provide a deeper understanding of how these concepts can enrich the experience of Synodality in the Church in the light of the Jubilee 2025.


Keywords


seeking the face of God; hope, synodality; Ordinary Jubilee 2025