In this episode, the hosts discuss the U.S. bishops' meeting, highlighting challenges with parliamentary procedures. They also chat about online campaigns, ducks, and revisions in response to abuse allegations in the Catholic Church. The significance of relics and the potential for an Institute of catechists are also explored.
Better adherence to parliamentary procedure is crucial for successful decision-making in U.S. bishops' meetings.
Investigating clerical sexual abuse post-Dallas Charter remains a pressing need within the Church.
The introduction of catechists as an instituted ministry could revolutionize parish life and community engagement.
Deep dives
Discussion on US Bishops' Spring Plenary Assembly
The US Bishops gathered in Louisville for their spring plenary assembly, with notable absences. One significant agenda item was the pastoral framework for youth and young people titled Listen, Teach, Send. The vote was inconclusive due to some bishops being absent, leading to a necessity for further polling. The failure to pass Listen, Teach, Send highlighted a need for a better adherence to parliamentary procedure and conference protocols.
Implications of Missing Parliamentarian Archbishop Schnurr
The absence of Parliamentarian Archbishop Schnurr, who was dealing with health issues, led to a lack of parliamentary guidance during the bishops' meeting. His absence potentially contributed to the failure to achieve the required vote threshold for Listen, Teach, Send. The situation raised questions about the handling of parliamentary procedures and called attention to the need for effective leadership in ensuring proper voting mechanisms.
National Review Board Update on Abuse Allegations
The National Review Board, led by Chairperson Mrs. Healy, provided an update on abuse allegations within the Church. Trends indicated a decrease in historical and contemporary abuse allegations, reflecting positive changes post-McCarrick scandal. While acknowledging progress, Mrs. Healy highlighted a rising need to address accusations involving vulnerable adults, emphasizing the importance of clear guidelines and procedures for dioceses in handling such cases.
Discussion on Instituted Ministries and National Directory
There was a consensus among bishops regarding the development of instituted ministries and the importance of defining their scope and purpose. A proposal for a national directory on instituted ministries, including catechists, lecturers, and acolytes, received overwhelming approval. The potential impact of these ministries in reshaping parish life and fostering a sense of community was acknowledged, signifying a significant step towards enhancing pastoral engagement and ministry.
Imagining the Future of Catechists and Parish Life
The discussion on instituted ministries and the development of a national directory prompted reflections on the transformative potential of catechists in reshaping American parish life. Emphasizing the need for creative and thoughtful approaches, the incorporation of Institute of Catechists could serve as a catalyst for reimagining parish structures and fostering deeper community engagement. While facing challenges and constraints, there is optimism about the possibility of revitalizing parish ministries through innovative and impactful practices.
JD and Ed share their takeaways from the U.S. bishops’ spring plenary assembly last week in Louisville, KY.— including a parliamentary disaster, a call for a post-Dallas Charter assessment of clerical sexual abuse, and JD’s hopes for the possibility of introducing the institution of catechists in the nation.
This episode of The Pillar Podcast is sponsored by Sacra: Relics of the Saints, an apostolate established to promote the veneration of sacred relics. Sacra works with religious communities, dioceses, and archives to identify, document, authenticate, and repair relics.
