Synod groups report on bishop selection, tricky questions

The report by Study Group 7 identified synodal competencies needed in candidates to be bishops. These include the ability to build communion, engage in dialogue, possess deep knowledge of local cultures and show a willingness to integrate into them constructively.

The group called for apostolic nuncios to have “a synodal and missionary profile”, so that they may also look for this profile in those proposed as possible bishops.

The report stated that every diocese should periodically carry out processes of discernment regarding its situation and needs, verifying whether those processes meet the standards of a synodal and missionary Church, in order to promote the sharing of best practices.

“As an episcopal succession approaches, the Bishop is to convene the Presbyteral Council and the Diocesan Pastoral Council, whose members express, in a collegial manner, an opinion on the needs of the diocese and submit to the Bishop – in a sealed envelope – the names of priests they consider suitable for the episcopate,” it said.

“Where possible, consultation is also to include the Cathedral Chapter, the Finance Council, the Lay Council, and representatives of consecrated persons, young people and the poor.”

The report’s authors encouraged what it describes as “a formative investment”, aimed at helping all members of the People of God sharpen their capacity for discernment. It proposed creating dedicated teams to assist the bishop in the ongoing formation of the clergy.

The final report of Study Group 9 drew on the biblical image found in chapters 10-15 of the Acts of the Apostles, which shows how cultural diversity can be valued without betraying the newness of the Gospel.

The report proposed a change of paradigm in the way the Church addresses the most difficult doctrinal, pastoral and ethical questions. The study group preferred the word “emerging” rather than “controversial” to describe these questions.

It was explained that “the aim is not merely to resolve problems but to build the common good through relational conversion, shared learning and transparency”.

The report calls for these guidelines to be applied concretely to the experience of homosexual Catholics and the practice of active non-violence.

The report included the testimony of two civilly-married gay Catholics and acknowledged the Church’s role in “the solitude, anguish and stigma that accompany persons with same-sex attractions and their families”.

The report also reflected on the negative impacts of conversion therapy, or “the devastating effects of reparative therapies aimed at recovering heterosexuality”, a National Catholic Reporter article stated.

FULL STORY

Synod releases final reports on selection of bishops, emerging issues (By Antonella Palermo/Vatican News)

Vatican criticizes conversion therapy, features gay Catholic testimony in ‘historic’ report (Religion News Service/National Catholic Reporter)

RELATED STORY

Filipino priest backs out of ordination as bishop, cites ‘human limitations’ (CruxNow)