Pope Francis' reforms of the Synod of Bishops to include laypeople as full, voting members show that the voice of the laity can no longer be discounted in the exercise of authority in the Catholic Church.
Commentary: Frank Butler's observations will help historians fill out some landmark post-Vatican II-era events during a period when the laity still actually took bishops at their word that lay men and women should become leaders in the church.
The recent Vatican instruction on pastoral care clarifies the responsibility of every member of the church community to work together in the shared mission of evangelization and warns against turning the parish into a mere provider of services, said Cardinal Beniamino Stella.
Co-responsiblity is a common theme of events across the nation. Last week, the University of Notre Dame hosted a three-day conference "exploring co-responsibility for the mission of the church."
It is noteworthy that a lay organization can fill a hotel ballroom in Washington with a mix of people, including members of the hierarchy, for frank dialogue about the church and the abuse crisis.
Commentary: Years ago, Andrew Greeley proposed a solution to the priest shortage: the "Priest Corps." It could be initiated immediately, and it could lead to a permanent change in church leadership.
A broader sense of synodality is about proper recognition of the place of all the baptized faithful in the prudential discernment about church decision-making and governance. It is what the church might look like at its best.
Lay men and women involved in ministry have been fundamental in spreading the Gospel and furthering the Catholic Church's mission in the Amazon, a Brazilian bishop said.
NCR Connections: Lay involvement is an important distinction. Our work is in the world. The going forth from Mass is the beginning of our work, not the end.
