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The U.S. bishops are set to gather in Baltimore from November 11-14 for their 2024 fall plenary assembly, following the recent conclusion of the Catholic Church’s synod on synodality in Rome. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) will hold public sessions on November 12 and 13, which will be livestreamed.
Cardinal Christophe Pierre, papal nuncio to the U.S., and Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the USCCB, are scheduled to address the assembly. The agenda includes updates on several initiatives, such as “Dignitas Infinita,” a Vatican declaration on human dignity, and Pope Francis’ decree “Antiquum Ministerium” concerning lay ministry of catechist. Additionally, discussions will cover environmental stewardship as per “Laudato Si’,” and the conference’s mission directive for 2025-2028.
Further topics include the USCCB’s 2025 budget and liturgical texts from the divine worship committee. Updates on migration, reports on the Synod of Bishops for a synodal church development, Eucharistic revival initiative, and National Eucharistic Congress are also expected.
Consultations on sainthood causes for Sister Annella Zervas and Servant of God Gertrude Agnes Barber are planned. Elections will be held for new conference treasurer and chairmen-elect for five committees.
Nominees for treasurer-elect and chairman-elect of the budget committee are Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda and Bishop David J. Malloy. For other committees: Bishop Juan Miguel Betancourt and Bishop Ronald A. Hicks (Clergy), Archbishop Alexander K. Sample and Bishop Michael G. Woost (Divine Worship), Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre and Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney (Domestic Justice), Bishop Edward J. Burns and Bishop James D. Conley (Laity), Bishop Brendan J. Cahill and Bishop Joseph J. Tyson (Migration).
