A Journal for The Contemporary Church

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Why Consult the Laity? A Theological Justification

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On October 18th, 2013, the Secretary of the Vatican’s Synodof Bishops sent notice to all the bishops of the world about aconsultation of the whole Church that was to precede and prepare for the synod on the Family. This consultation was intended as an attempt to hear the cries of the people and their needs which were not being met by present Church structures and teaching – and it was in the context of Evangelization – which means it was also a call for a response, a call to action on the part of all the baptized faithful.

The questionnaire assumed the need for everyone in the Church – from the Pope on down – to listen and to learn from others.