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The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops concluded its fall plenary assembly on November 13 in Baltimore, discussing a range of issues including elections, synodality, environmental care, life issues such as abortion and immigration. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, the conference's president and head of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military Services, shared insights with OSV News before the public session.
In his opening address, Archbishop Broglio emphasized the importance of virtues as "good teachers" and encouraged Catholics to live these values to instigate change. He cited St. Frances Xavier Cabrini as an example of someone who addressed needs courageously.
Discussing recent changes in conference operations, Archbishop Broglio highlighted how executive sessions and fraternal dialogues facilitate open discourse among bishops. He noted that these smaller settings enable brainstorming without public pressure, contributing to more harmonious public sessions.
Archbishop Broglio acknowledged challenges like leaks from private sessions but expressed reliance on bishops' integrity to maintain confidentiality. He stated: "We depend on the word of successors of the apostles and gentlemen."
Regarding President-elect Donald Trump’s administration, Archbishop Broglio stressed working for the common good while maintaining independence from political parties. He emphasized dignity as central to various concerns like life rights, immigration, poverty alleviation, education facilitation, and peace advocacy.
He also commented on Vice President-elect JD Vance's Catholic faith amidst differing views from church teachings: "The church tries to announce truth," while recognizing individuals may hold personal opinions.
Reflecting on his experience at the Synod on Synodality in Rome, Archbishop Broglio underscored listening as a vital lesson for both the U.S. church and broader universal church efforts toward a synodal path.
Michael R. Heinlein contributed to this report for OSV News.
