youth synod Archives - New Ways Ministry

Italian Archbishop Stresses Importance of LGBT Ministry

October 21, 2018/2 Comments/in Parish Life & Pastoral Care, Politics & Human Rights /by Francis DeBernardo, Editor

At Thursday's synod press briefing, one of the featured speakers was Archbishop Matteo Zuppi of Bologna, Italy. As far as LGBT issues go, Zuppi is probably best known for writing the preface to Un ponte da costruire, the Italian translation of Fr. James Martin's book, Building a Bridge, about improving the relationship between LGBT people and the Catholic Church. Continue reading to learn what he said about LGBT ministry. Read More

Question for Synod: How Can Bishops Learn to Be Listeners?

October 20, 2018/2 Comments/in Parish Life & Pastoral Care, Schools & Youth /by Francis DeBernardo, Editor

At the synod's daily press briefings, each guest, whether bishop, cardinal, youth, nun, or priest, has unanimously declared that the synod has been a unique experience of exchanging ideas between the bishop and other "adult" delegates with the youth delegates. I have to admit that at first I was a bit skeptical about the description of an atmosphere where everybody gets along and all are willing to share their ideas openly and also to listen in an equally open manner. But, I've come to believe that there may be truth in these descriptions. Read More

Bishop: Church Should Welcome Lesbian/Gay People, But Also Call Them to Conversion

October 13, 2018/3 Comments/in Hierarchy, Schools & Youth /by Francis DeBernardo, Editor

At yesterday's synod press briefing, Bishop Robert Barron said, ""The church’s first move in regard to everybody," including gay and lesbian people "is to reach out and say just that, 'You’re a beloved child of God.' " But that's not all he said. Read More