“Though they differ from one another in essence and not only in degree, the common priesthood of the faithful and the ministerial or hierarchical priesthood are nonetheless interrelated: each of them in its own special way is a participation in the one priesthood of Christ” (Lumen Gentium, #10).The reports issued during the diocesan and continental phases of the Synod on Synodality 2021-2024 offer a consistent call for a renewed understanding of the universal or baptismal priesthood. These reports frequently refer to the Vatican II quotation above, reminding us that 60 years ago, the church began to chart a new path in which the laity are not passive observers of the clergy’s active ministry. At times over the intervening years, lay ministry has been deemed a collaboration in what was typically understood as clerical ministry. The very word “ministry” has been frequently denied to lay people, who were instead meant to have an apostolate in the world. Pope Francis’ call to end clericalism has not meant an end to ordained ministry. He has cautioned against moves to clericalize lay ministry, pointing instead to the baptismal dignity of all. The Synod participants have noted the scriptural foundations for a baptismal priesthood.
During the Jubilee of Bishops, Pope Leo XIV gave a meditation at the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter's Basilica. He said that "a Bishop is a witness to hope by his example of a life firmly grounded in God and completely devoted to the service of the Church. This will be the case only insofar as he is conformed to Christ in his personal life and in his apostolic ministry. The Spirit of the Lord will then shape his way of thinking."
Gail Allan celebrates the ecumenical and interfaith history of The United Church of Canada for its 100th anniversary.
Popular depictions of Conclaves often show a political drama with lots of maneuvering and intrigue. At heart, it's also a deeply synodal act of spiritual discernment. How can we reconcile these two diverging perspectives on papal elections?
Nicholas Jesson reflects on the late pope's achievements on the journey to Christian unity and human fraternity.
Guest contributor Dr. Murray Watson reflects on the differences and interconnectedness of Passover and Easter.