Polarization: A Spiritual and Pastoral Challenge

“As a priest, I see polarization as more than a political or social problem. It is a spiritual and pastoral challenge because it affects how we recognize the dignity of others and how we live together as one body in Christ,” says Father Ricky Manalo, CSP. “In my ministry, I have seen how these divisions can weaken relationships and diminish trust among us.”

Fr. Manalo is this year’s featured speaker at the National Pastoral Musicians Fall Meeting, held September 25-26 at Our Lady of the Black Hills, Piedmont. He is a Paulist priest who is recognized internationally for his contributions to intercultural ministry and pastoral leadership, and his work focuses on the Church’s engagement with sociological disciplines such as political polarization and artificial intelligence.

According to NPM board member Teresa Spiess, the group brings in a nationally known speaker every other year. This year, they wanted someone who was not only respected musically, but could also speak to larger issues. Father Manalo quickly emerged as the frontrunner. “The board members admired a number of his hymns which have been published in our hymnals and his recent work in AI was of note, as was the work he has been doing in the area of polarization in the Church,” she said. 

There will be two days with Fr. Manalo, including an evening of sung prayer, reflection and theological insights September 25, at 7 p.m., titled “Tune, Text and Theology: an Evening of Musical Prayer,” There is no charge for the event; however, freewill donations will be taken and participants are encouraged to bring nonperishable items for the OLBH Food Bank. Local musicians will also be featured. 

On September 26, Fr. Manalo will present, “Toward a More Perfect Communion: Finding Christ in a Time of Polarization” which will offer practical ways to listen across differences, rebuild trust, and remain in relationship when agreement is difficult. “Together, the music and presentation invite us to recognize Christ in one another and take a faithful step toward healing division,” he said.

“Differences in opinion, style, and viewpoint are inevitable,” agreed Spiess. “We have seen the harm that can arise when difference becomes division. Music ministers and all Catholics play a role in building bridges so that all of our parishioners can come together in unity for the life of the Church.”  

While both evenings will be geared toward those in church ministry, all are welcome. “I would invite anyone who is concerned about the divisions affecting our Church, nation, communities, and families,” said Fr. Manalo. “The concert and presentation are intended for people of all backgrounds, and no specialized knowledge or musical skill is needed. I especially hope to welcome those who want to understand polarization more deeply and learn how to engage differences without giving up on one another. All that is needed is a willingness to listen, reflect, and consider how each of us can help build communion as members of the same body of Christ.

“I believe our Catholic tradition offers valuable wisdom for this moment. It calls us to encounter one another, to listen with patience, to speak truth with love, and to remain committed to communion even when agreement is difficult. I hope this presentation will help people reflect on the divisions around them and identify practical ways to rebuild trust and strengthen relationships.”

The Saturday morning session begins at 9:30 a.m. and  will be followed by the annual St. Cecilia Banquet, featuring Filipino cuisine catered by Savour Pinoy. Awards will be presented for service and excellence. The day will end with an afternoon session and a commissioning prayer for music ministers. If you would like to reserve a meal for the Saturday session, there is a $20 charge for lunch, which must be prepaid, but the presentations are free. Register by September 20 by clicking the link below or contacting board secretary, Carman Timmerman at carmantimmerman@gmail.com or 605-391-4053.