For Fr. Andrzej Sudol, SCJ, starting his presentation to ECS students by leading them in the singing of Psalm 121 in Lingala, one of the national languages of the Democratic Republic of Congo, was more than just a practical way to bring the afternoon’s topic – “Interculturality and Multicultural Ministries” – to life.
“In many cultures, 1:00 p.m. is SIESTA TIME,” said Fr. Andrzej. “With the help of our Congolese SCJ students, we were able to get everyone to join in the ritual singing and dance. Not only did we begin our afternoon with prayer, but the style got everyone’s energy levels up after lunch so that nobody slept through the presentation, including me!”
Fr. Andrzej has lived interculturality most of his adult life. Originally from the Polish province, he ministered in India and the Philippines before coming to the United States, where he served in formation while earning a doctorate with a focus on interculturality from Catholic Theological Union. He is now pastor of St. Martin of Tours parish in Franklin, WI.
“With the ECS students I shared my experience with diversity of cultures and multicultural communities,” said Fr. Andrzej. “I showed them many photos and shared examples. I gave them some basics of intercultural dynamics and skills. But above all I wanted to inspire them for intercultural living and mission. You need an effort, but also passion to be open to other cultures, and to share yours. It’s a life-long journey.
“ECS” is the English and Culture Studies program at Sacred Heart Seminary and School of Theology, formerly known as ESL. Fr. Andrzej spoke to the class on July 13.
