Listening and Learning Through Discernment Circles
by Elio Sergnese, MSW, RSW,
Senior Advisor - Policy, Research and Advocacy,
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Toronto
As part of Catholic Charities’ 2025 Fall two-part Poverty Series, we introduced the
Jesuit Forum’s discernment circle process, and the experience was so impactful. The
discernment circle offered a grounded, respectful way to explore complex questions
about poverty and the systems that shape it. What stood out most was how this
approach encouraged real listening. Each person had space to share from their own
experience, and in doing so, new connections and insights began to emerge.
Rather than debating or rushing to solutions, we slowed down to reflect on what we
were hearing, on how poverty manifests in our communities, and what it asks of us as
individuals and organizations. The process allowed participants to move beyond
surface-level discussion into a more relational and thoughtful engagement with the
issues.
For me, the discernment circle reinforced how important it is to create spaces where
people can think together about poverty with openness and care. It reminded me that
community change often begins in these grassroots conversations, when we take the
time to listen across differences and build understanding that leads to collective action.
Our next two-part Poverty Series will once again be in collaboration with the Jesuit
Forum and will feature discernment circles as an integral component. Slated for late
March, we hope more people will join us in meaningful discussion and discernment.
If you are interested in joining, let us know by writing us at contact@jesuitforum.ca
Discover the Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Toronto podcast series: on Spreaker: Insights and Encounters / on Spotify: Insights and Encounters | Podcast on Spotify