Speak Up.
Pope Francis asked to hear from us in an event called Synod on Synodality.
He asked, what is important to you and your family?
This is what was sent formally to Francis on behalf of the United States:
Catholics are anxious about political divisions, Covid 19, being more inclusive to LGBTQ+, fighting racism, caring for the the poor, undocumented, and disabled. People want the young priests to balance their dogmatism with compassion, and young people want focus on race, justice, and climate change. Elders are sad about young people leaving the Church. We must come across as not judging people.
Read the Synthesis by clicking here.
Below is a Quick Rundown Below
Page 1: Title Page
Page 2: It is wonderful that the United States participate in the call to dialogue by Pope Francis.
Page 3: All 178 diocese participated, represented the 66.8 million Catholics
Page 4: Of the 66.8 million, 700,000 participated, resulting 22,000 reports
Page 5: Participants are grateful to have participated.
Page 6: People are anxious and divided, especially on COVID 19, political ideologies, Bishops, and media entrenchment
Page 7: Groups feel marginalized especially the poor, women, undocumented, poor, disabled, and LGBTQ+
Page 8: The Eucharist brings people closer to the poor, policies are interpreted as red tape, the Church prioritizes doctrine over people
Page 9: LGBTQ+ people feel excluded, divorced people feel condemned, women need more leadership positions, sign language needs more representation
Page 10: Racism ostracizes people, young people want the Church to speak up on justice, race, and climate change, elders lament them leaving
Page 11: Children and Parents are having to choose between Church activities and elsewhere
Page 12: Formation should be lifelong, Young Priests should balance “dogmatism” with compassion,