Abp. Kurtz: Synod was “Characterized by Discernment and Unanimity” | Jim Graves | Catholic World Report
The president of the USCCB discusses the synod, the “relatio,” and the work that lies ahead.
Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Louisville, Kentucky, president of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, was an active participant in this month’s Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops on the theme “The Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Context of Evangelization.” The synod’s purpose was to examine challenges to the family today, and ultimately to develop a more effective pastoral approach for the Church in addressing those challenges.
In addition to speaking out in defense of the unborn, Archbishop Kurtz has been a vocal supporter of the traditional family against legal recognition of same-sex marriage. During the two-week-long synod, he also received media attention, giving interviews as well as participating in an English-language briefing for reporters.
He recently spoke with CWR.
CWR: When the synod’s mid-term document (the “Relatio”) was released, many faithful Catholics were concerned that some in Church leadership were trying to change Church teaching in regards to homosexuality and same-sex marriage. What reassurance would you offer to those who had such concerns?
Archbishop Joseph Kurtz: I take the Holy Father at his word that this synod process is not taking on doctrine, but reaching out in creative and pastoral ways to families where they are at to help them. We want to do this while proclaiming our time-honored teachings of our Church.
I think in the end, the [final] synod document was well-grounded in theology and Scripture. We look forward now to the very fruitful period between now and the synod next October.
CWR: You said in your press briefing that the [mid-term] relatio needed clarification. What did you personally believe was wrong with this document?
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