Collaboration in the Public for the Public
Part II of Are you part of the Praxis Wing?
Looking for ways to get started? I recommend forming Study Groups, Book Clubs, and Discussion Groups. Start small; remember, the early followers of Jesus were small groups that gathered for meals, study, and discussion of Jesus' words. The followers then figured out action plans together. Today, all of this can be done live, on Zoom, or in a hybrid format.
We start where Joseph Cardijn began, with the encyclicals, then add the Documents of Vatican II to lay the foundation of Catholic Social Teaching. This leads us to meaningful discussions—this is the core of learning.
There are almost 300 encyclicals issued by the Popes of the Catholic Church. The most prolific writers were Pope Leo XIII, who authored 85 encyclicals, and Pope Pius X, who authored 41 encyclicals.
Begin with Rerum Novarum, Quadragesimo Anno, Mater et Magistra, Pacem in Terris, Populorum Progressio, Laborem Exercens, Centesimus Annus, Caritas in Veritate, Laudato Si’, and Fratelli Tutti.
Share what you learn. Your insights are valuable and can enrich the learning experience for others in your community and organization. We start where all learning begins: With Curiosity and Puzzlement, maybe a slight Bewilderment. Together, we address the 'warm fuzzies and the cold pricklies,' trying to answer the question: 'Why Bother? Does it make a difference?' ‘How do we make a difference?’
We work towards the highest standard of a life well-lived when we practice and cultivate WISDOM. In all contexts of our lives, like family, social, and business, we call that Eudaimonia. The discussion groups will change lives and bring about the greater good in each of us.
In your discussion groups, aim to inspire everyone. We do this by exposing everyone to the inner workings of history's most brilliant minds on the subject. These include philosophers, scientists, and artists. Also cover current writers, musicians, and others who speak to the topic. Strive to think profoundly and innovate. Discuss passionately, educate, and live boldly through collaboration.
"All genuine learning is active, not passive. It involves the use of the mind, not just the memory. It is a discovery process, in which the student is the main agent, not the teacher." ~ Mortimer J Adler