“The bonds formed through shared moments of prayer [and] deep conversations create a unique camaraderie that transcends the ordinary,” the priest went on in the message. “Every encounter becomes the opportunity to be an extension of God's presence.”
Reasons for hope
Broglio also spoke about last month’s Synod on Synodality in Rome and emphasized that the call to evangelize includes the willingness of the Church to “listen to each other.”
In many respects, Broglio asserted, “synodal realities” already exist in the Catholic Church in America.
“The collegial atmosphere that characterizes these assemblies, the excellent consideration and interaction that typifies the work of the National Advisory Council, the work of diocesan pastoral councils, presbyteral councils, review boards, school boards, and so many other organizations come readily to mind,” he said.
“That is not to say that we do not have to grow and open ourselves to new possibilities,” Broglio cautioned, “but we recognize and build on what is already present. We open our hearts to the action of the Holy Spirit and we listen to that voice.”
“On the front lines of these efforts are our committed priests on fire with the Gospel. They are our first collaborators and we are so dependent on their tireless efforts,” he said.
“We are also encouraged by young men preparing in the seminaries,” he went on, adding that “they are a sign of hope for the future.”
Broglio concluded by thanking “all of those who strive to instill vibrancy, commitment, and renewal into our faith communities while reaching out to the peripheries at the same time.”
Looking to the hundreds of bishops assembled from across the nation, Broglio said: “May our time together, a rather full agenda, and the many opportunities for fraternal exchanges enrich each of us and send us home with renewed zeal for the mission we have in common.”
Peter Pinedo is a DC Correspondent for CNA. A graduate of Franciscan University, Peter previously worked for Texas Right to Life. He is a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserve.