Symposium Processes and Practicalities

Feedback  Groups  Liturgy  Processes  Recording  Structure

Process

The symposium has been structured around a variety of adult learning and group process techniques:

• Expert presentations
• Guided conversation
• Opportunities for questions
• Independent reflection
• Participatory organisational design
• Action planning & strategising

Structure

The work of the symposium is divided into six sessions:

• Foundation/Introduction: Session 1
• Input on Theology/Scripture/Tradition/Experience: Sessions 2,3 & 5
• Creative Invention & Action Planning: Sessions 4 & 6

Sessions 1, 2, 3 & 5 follow a similar pattern:

1. Expert input
2. Small group conversation
3. Plenary – with questions to speakers and a summary of groupwork

Session 4 utilises a futures invention technique to brain storm as many creative possibilities as groups can imagine.

Session 6 challenges groups to action plan and strategise one or two of these possibilities.

Feedback

Feedback from small groups will take the form of written statements which will be posted along the corridor outside the refectory and main hall.  The symposium facilitators, assisted by the management team, will report any recurring points, concerns or questions raised by groups during the plenary sessions. These will also provide an opportunity to address any questions to speakers. 

Recording

Presentations and all main hall comments will be recorded to assist the Home is a Holy Place working group follow up the symposium more effectively. Presentations only will be made available for purchase on compact disc.

Written reports by groups will be retained by the management team including the action plans which will then form the basis of the work of Home is a Holy Place in 2007.

Liturgy

The liturgy has been designed to involve all the work spaces of the symposium.

During the course of the three days Ushaw will be a home for each participant; a sacred space where God's family are gathered in God's name. 

The opening liturgy will take place in the Great Hall, preceded by a gathering outside.  The closing Mass will take place in the college Chapel. Daily prayer will sometimes be in large groups in the Great Hall and sometimes in small groups, typical of Christian families.

Mass will also be celebrated on Friday and Saturday morning before breakfast.

Groups

Each small group will consist of 8-9 people including a facilitator. Facilitators have been selected primarily for their experience and ability to attend a pre-symposium briefing. Secondary to this has been selection according to gender, vocation and pastoral experience within the church. Groups will be identified by name, chosen for the family of Jesus.