Cardinal Joseph Tobin emphasized that the role of lay people is important to the Catholic Church.
The Archbishop of Newark said that their input is "crucial." He made this remark during an online church event on Monday, Nov. 22.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Secretariat for Laity, Marriage, Family Life, and Youth led the event. Aside from that, the Catholic Apostolate Center also reportedly facilitated the webinar.
Laity Deserves to Be Heard
According to Jersey Catholic, Cardinal Tobin said that the Church must listen to the people. He reiterated that these people deserve to be given attention and be heard by the Church.
The Archbishop revealed that the Holy Father urges the faith community to hear their voices. He stressed that Pope Francis encouraged parishes to capitalize on the synodal process.
Cardinal Tobin revealed that lay people make up the vast majority of Catholics in faith communities.
"Those of us who have been in the trenches realize that the input of the laity, who are the majority of the church, is crucial," he said.
"Without that, it's like trying to see the picture with one eye closed and maybe three-quarters of the other eye closed," he added.
Cardinal Tobin joined the other three speakers and a moderator during the said online event.
The panel features Xavière Missionary Sister Nathalie Becquart. She is also undersecretary of the Synod of Bishops.
Dominican Father Wayne Cavalier also spoke in the webinar. He is the director of the Congar Institute for Ministry Development in San Antonio.
Moreover, panelist Kerry Alys Robinson completed the roster of speakers for the online event.
The panel discussion reportedly centered on the role of the laity in the Diocesan synodal process.
As per the report, the panelists highlighted the need for prayers, discernment, and listening.
They also claimed that the synodal process amplifies the Church's call to the faithful. Catholics are reportedly called to continue the mission of the Church.
Synodal Process Breaks Barriers
Based on the report, Cardinal Tobin said that the process is also a chance for Catholics. He reiterated that it is a chance to rise from different influences that derail them.
The Archbishop attested that these several forces had "wounded" the Catholic Church. He bared that these also attempted to divide the Church and society throughout the years.
Cardinal Tobin attested that it would be a challenge for the Church to engage billions of Catholics. However, he described this process as "exciting" and "hopeful."
It can be noted that the synodal process consists of three phases. The listening process would be Diocesan-based.
Additionally, every Diocese must then submit reports regarding the Diocesan phase.
These summaries and reports will be reportedly finalized and presented to the Vatican.
About the Archdiocese of Newark
The Archdiocese is a Catholic congregation at 171 Clifton Avenue in Newark, New Jersey. As per its website, the Archdiocese believes in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.
Aside from that, the Catholic community seeks to listen, serve, and love all of God's people.
The Archdiocese reportedly strives to proclaim and become living witnesses of the Gospel. It also aims to establish Christ-centered faith communities.
More from Crossmap:
Brooklyn bishop-designate uses synod to become familiar with Diocese
