Put pressure on the Synod

As the Synod on the Family approaches, Catholics continue to make their voices heard. (Check out these actions!) Bishops have been directed to learn from the experiences of lay Catholics. In dioceses where the bishop hasn't reached out, we've encouraged laity to be proactive, making it clear they expect to be heard. Catholics are taking advantage of this opportunity to make clear their pastoral needs and ways the church can better serve them. Some CTA members and chapters have written to the diocesan newspaper, called the diocese or set up meetings with their parish priests in order to make it obvious that they want to be involved in the process.

The National Catholic Reporter has published information about which diocese are soliciting input, and how easy they've made it to be involved. The results make it obvious that many Bishops have not taken the Pope's instructions seriously.  They may not be inviting input, but Catholics will make sure to provide it nonetheless!

Several groups are gathering information informally; these groups do not have delegates attending the Synod but they will try to publicize the information through the media. Strong Catholic Families, a coalition of several ministry groups, has launched a survey for parents. The Association of US Catholic Priests, a progressive group which many CTA members belong to, has launched a survey for priests, many of whom have felt just as left out of the process as lay people.Local groups can also take control of the conversation by holding Listening Circles. Whatever the outcome of the Synod, its agenda provides a wonderful context within which local communities can examine their own ministry to families.  Resources for hosting a conversation, and tips for inviting institutional leaders to take part, can be found at the Our Catholic Family webpage.

In addition, we are asking the Pope to widen the circle. He can invite anyone to provide testimony as an "expert" at the Synod. A coalition of progressive groups has nominated a list of experts who represent some of the diversity of the U.S. Catholic laity. They also launched a petition to those planning the Synod. The petition will close on March 3 to be delivered to Synod leaders and English speaking Bishops.