"On the contrary, finding ways to meet people, help them grow in faith, and closer to the Lord is what is key in this pastoral implementation of Amoris Laetitia," he said.
"In fact, I would say, that part of the mercy of God is sometimes helping people slowly learn the truth of their situation in the sight of God and with his grace, taking steps to reconcile what has gone wrong in their past."
The plan stresses the importance of a strong parish community that is welcoming to all, including those it terms the "anonymous." These "anonymous" included the poor, infertile couples, the disabled, ethnic minorities, and with a "lack of authentic friendships, sneaking in and out of church without notice, young people church-hopping Sunday after Sunday without belonging to a parish community."
The plan emphasizes that these groups should be made to feel welcome by a Church community, because "the Church must live up to its identity as a 'family of families"'(AL, 202) where each person is recognized, cared for, and loved."
Cardinal Wuerl identified secularism, materialism, and individualism as three challenges facing people today. These challenges, he said, impede the proper formation of consciences, which results in the necessity of "the ministry for encountering and accompanying families through a process of discernment and growth in the faith" as part of the new evangelization.
Pecknold agreed with this sentiment, and lauded the plan as a way for parishes to assist people with both the proper formation of their consciences and to better understand their faith.
"Instead of highlighting ambiguous phrases of Amoris Laetitia to teach new things," he said, "this pastoral plan looks at how the Church can help people experience and understand the objective truths of the faith even in the midst of their own failures, challenges, and hopes."
Christine Rousselle is a former DC Correspondent for Catholic News Agency. Prior to working at CNA, she was the managing web editor of Townhall.com; she has a BA in political science from Providence College.