This article aims to reveal several points regarding the quality of listening in building a synodal Church by learning from listening experiences among the Catholics of Manado Diocese. By using a phenomenological approach, we want to describe the experiences of Catholics in listening interactions in their lives of faith, and how people interpret that experience. The data collection was obtained in conjunction with the focus group discussion process which was carried out in this diocese ahead of the 2023 Synod of Bishops. It was found that both positive qualities and challenges can be found in various communities, lay and clergy, leaders of the people and the people they lead. By carefully appreciating these aspects in the light of Church models, the article provides strategic suggestions for reflection and pastoral action not only in Manado Diocese but also for the wider Church to build a better listening Church.

This research seeks a permanent juridical solution for the pastoral problem of catholic split marriages. Many such couples need the Catholic Church's intervention to give way out of their family problem. And there is indeed a solution provided by Pope Francis with the reform of Canon Law regarding the issue of divorce and remarried couples of Catholic families. The research method is identifying and documenting what has been done in the diocese of Manado by Fr. Jan van Paassen and studying his approach to dealing with families needing help. Bibliographical research indicates the method of Fr. Jan van Paassen in dealing with the problem. It has a solid foundation and a reasonable argumentation which may be accepted by the authority of the Church based on the Calon Law itself. May this research help solve the pastoral problem of the catholic split marriage on the one hand. On the other side, the indissolubility of marriage remains the permanent teaching of the Catholic Church.