Alerts Sign-up
The U.S. bishops gathered in Baltimore for their annual fall assembly from November 11-14, focusing on aligning their efforts with the synodal missionary style advocated by the global church's recently concluded Synod on Synodality.
Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), addressed the assembly at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, urging his fellow bishops to seek wisdom as "servants of the truth."
Cardinal Christophe Pierre, papal ambassador to the U.S., emphasized Pope Francis' encyclical "Dilexit Nos" and its call to "return to the heart" of Jesus, highlighting its significance for synodal evangelization and upcoming events like Jubilee 2025.
During public sessions on November 12 and 13, bishops approved a new mission directive for 2025-2028 aimed at evangelizing those unaffiliated or disaffiliated from the Church, with a focus on young adults and youth. They also discussed forming a task force to implement Pope Francis' final synod document.
Bishop Daniel E. Flores briefed attendees on ongoing theological work needed alongside developing a synodal missionary culture among Catholics. Bishop Robert E. Barron spoke about drafting a new document on lay ecclesial ministry that considers co-responsibility in evolving parish workplaces.
The assembly approved several liturgical texts and promoted causes for sainthood, including Benedictine Sister Annella Zervas and Gertrude Agnes Barber. Auxiliary Bishop Roy E. Campbell urged support for canonization causes known as the "Holy Six."
Bishop Stepan Sus received recognition after sharing Ukraine's challenges under Russian occupation and expressing gratitude for U.S. church support.
Bishop Andrew H. Cozzens outlined future steps following positive feedback from national Eucharistic pilgrimages and congresses, aiming to assist dioceses in forming Eucharistic missionaries.
Discussions included marking Pope Francis' encyclical "Laudato Si’" anniversary by integrating it into evangelization efforts and reintroducing fasting practices.
Committees presented implementation plans for Vatican declaration "Dignitas Infinita." Concerns over potential mass deportations under President-elect Donald Trump were addressed by Bishop Mark J. Seitz, who called for unified leadership on migration issues.
The conference passed a budget for 2025 without increasing diocesan assessments and elected leaders to various USCCB positions, including Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda as treasurer-elect.
Two bishops were confirmed to Catholic Relief Services' board: Bishop Donald J. Hying and Auxiliary Bishop Evelio Menjivar-Ayala.
Concluding in executive session on November 14, USCCB released a statement supporting immigrants in the U.S., emphasizing fair treatment from government authorities.
Peter Jesserer Smith is OSV News' national news editor.
