By Stephen P. White, The Catholic Thing, Dec. 19, 2019
Stephen P. White is a fellow in Catholic Studies at the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington.
Note: The Papal Posse – Raymond Arroyo, Fr. Gerald Murray, and myself – will appear on EWTN’s “The World Over” tonight (Thursday, December 19) at 8 PM ET. We will be discussing events that occurred during the year now coming to an end, and what are likely to be the most significant developments in 2020 for the Church. Check your local listings for the station in your area. – Robert Royal
Sometimes big changes in the Church happen all at once and in obvious ways. Think of certain reforms of the Second Vatican Council. Other changes – even some monumental changes – happen much more slowly, and so can be difficult to perceive as they are happening. And sometimes, it is clear that the way things have been is coming to an end, but what might come next is uncertain. Such are times of apprehension – and hope.
The episcopate is changing. Pope Francis’ emphasis on synodality and collegiality are part of this. His reshaping the College of Cardinals to include bishops from the peripheries is another. But perhaps the most significant change is subtler than these: the laity’s expectations for their bishops are changing. Lay deference to clergy – especially bishops – is at a low ebb. Trust has worn thin. ….