What is (and isn’t) the role of bishops in a synodal church?

Jesuitical

While it might not generate as many headlines as women deacons or L.G.B.T. Catholics, the role of the bishops has emerged as one of the most prominent—and controversial—topics of the Synod on Synodality. Two of the 10 study groups established by Pope Francis are dedicated to bishops, and the pope used his opening address at the final session of the synod in Rome to defend his decision to include lay people as voting members in a Synod of Bishops.

Few people are better equipped to dig into questions around the role, qualifications and selection of bishops than Tom Reese, S.J., a senior analyst at Religion News Service and former editor in chief of America magazine. Tom has written several books about the history and structure of the episcopacy and has covered synods since the 1980s. Zac, Ashley and Sebastian talk to Tom about:

- How the process of choosing bishops has changed from the apostolic age to today

- The qualities we should look for in a bishop—holiness, theological smarts or administrative skill?

- How the role of bishops is being discussed and discerned at the synod

Zac and Ashley also share the tragic news that after a yearlong battle with cancer, friend and three-time guest Greg Hillis has passed away. Please keep him and his family in your prayers.

Links from the show:

• Pope Francis defends giving women and lay men voting rights at synod
• Read Tom Reese’s column
• 17 Schoolgirls Die In Rwanda Attack
• Nukes, contemplation and vocation: An introduction to Thomas Merton for young Catholics, interview with Greg Hillis
• Living like monks in quarantine, interview with Greg Hillis
• Greg Hillis & Family Cancer Journey

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