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Archbishop Charles C. Thompson of Indianapolis provided an update on the U.S. bishops' Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis plans to implement the ministry of lay catechist, as outlined by Pope Francis in his May 2021 apostolic letter "Antiquum Ministerium." This announcement was made during the second public session of the bishops' fall plenary assembly held from November 11-14.
Pope Francis emphasized that the lay ministry of catechists should underscore "the missionary commitment proper to every baptized person" while maintaining a secular approach and avoiding clericalization. He highlighted the increasing need for evangelization due to contemporary global challenges.
Following approval in June to draft a document on lay catechists, Archbishop Thompson revealed that they received feedback suggesting a national directory covering all instituted ministries: catechist, lector, and acolyte. Consequently, the committee will revise its document into a guide for forming leaders in evangelizing catechesis with input from other committees within the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of USCCB, noted Pope Francis’ recent decisions regarding women’s roles as acolytes and lectors and establishing the office of catechist as an instituted lay ministry. He stated that creating this directory is crucial for understanding these vocations' theological aspects and practical requirements.
The committee's work will align with insights from the recent Synod on Synodality, focusing on ongoing missionary conversion. Archbishop Thompson quoted Pope Francis’ 2013 exhortation "Evangelii Gaudium," emphasizing kerygma as central to evangelizing efforts.
The committee aims to define evangelizing catechesis as fostering personal encounters with Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit's power while conveying the Gospel's core message. The forthcoming document will address current catechetical needs and recommend forming "master evangelizing catechists" in dioceses.
Auxiliary Bishop Michael G. Woost of Cleveland was announced as chair of the Task Force on Instituted Ministries, responsible for developing a National Directory for Lector, Acolyte, and Catechist ministries.
Additionally, bishops approved drafting a succession document to "Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord," led by Bishop Robert E. Barron of Winona-Rochester, Minnesota. This initiative responds to significant changes over two decades in church co-responsibility and evolving parish dynamics.
The committee plans extensive consultations involving various church leaders and experts before crafting this new document. Bishop Barron acknowledged potential overlaps with implementing lay catechist ministries but noted it would be addressed during consultations.
The proposal received overwhelming support from bishops with 223 votes in favor.
Lauretta Brown is culture editor for OSV News. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) @LaurettaBrown6.
