A Synodal Alternative for Ecclesial Conflict: Marshall Rosenberg’s Nonviolent Communication

Abstract

The article examines Marshall Rosenberg’s nonviolent communication and conflict mediation with the aim to situate Rosenberg’s approach within conflict transformation approaches and how his strategy offers practical tools for mediating diverse forms of conflictual moral questions in the ecclesial context. The study engaged in a descriptive and critical analysis of the literature relevant to dealing with conflict in general and Rosenberg’s approach specifically. The results show that Rosenberg’s nonviolent communication and conflict mediation could contribute to transform the Catholic Church’s diverse moral conflictual questions in a synodal manner. The article recommends trainings on peacebuilding through peace education generally and specifically, nonviolent communication and conflict mediation. It also suggests further research on empathy, which focuses on listening, dialogue, and conflict transformation. This has the potential to enrich synodality and conflict mediation in the Catholic church.