Abp. Aymond: Feed the flock with the Eucharist

By Archbishop Gregory Aymond
 Clarion Herald

1. The USCCB sent a message to Pope Francis to assure him of our prayers for him and for those who are suffering from war and conflict. We asked for his prayers for us and for our Eucharistic Congress later this month. We acknowledged the Holy Year of 2025.
 2. The Apostolic Nuncio, Cardinal Pierre, addressed the bishops. He assured us of the closeness of the Holy Father. What is the context of our meeting? The Eucharistic Congress and we gather in a spirit of Eucharistic evangelization. We realize the power of the Eucharist and our continued mission of service. We need to continue feeding the flock by the Eucharist and our ministry. As bishops, we must reconnect ourselves to the Eucharistic people. The encounter between Jesus and his disciples is an example for us. Jesus invited them to a relationship that would change their lives. We are a church that is suffering and redeemed. His wounds tell us of the depth of his love for us. We must go back to our roots to move forward. The wounds of Christ tell us we are loved and forgiven. Jesus loves us in our weaknesses.
 3. Archbishop Broglio, president of the USCCB, addressed the bishops. He spoke of specific priests and his father who have been an inspiration to him. These people call us to care and be committed to active charity. Let us remember the people of today who give their lives to work for peace. He spoke of how this is present in the United States military, of which he is the Archbishop of Military Services. We must reach out to the migrants at our borders. We must be a light to them. He also spoke of our sisters and brothers in Nicaragua, Ukraine and other parts of the world where there are wars and conflict. He addressed gender theory and our need to follow the teachings of the Church. Creation is a gift to us to be respected and appreciated.
 4. There was a report on the upcoming Synod. Bishop Flores thanked the bishops and the diocesan representatives for their work in preparation for the Synod. We are called to a prophetic witness of faith through the Synod. Highlights were given regarding “tension” in the world and the Church. Tension not division. Tensions can bring about holiness and growth of the Church and unity. The Synod calls us to accompany one another in our faith journey toward unity.
 5. The bishops approved the following documents: a. “Keeping Christ’s Sacred Promise: A Pastoral Framework for Indigenous Ministry”; b. Additional texts for the proposed “Liturgy of the Hours” (this will need the approval of the Holy See); c. “Listen, Teach and Send: A National Framework for Ministries with Youth and Young Adults”
 6. The bishops discussed the “National Catholic Mental Health Campaign.” Young 
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 7. The bishops discussed a motion to prepare a “National Directory for Instituted Ministries.” These include lector, acolyte and catechist. There are several issues that need to be discussed before a vote can be taken on this proposal. It is intended that a preliminary document can be available for discussion in November. The formation of catechists still needs study. The bishops also voted in favor of writing a “National Directory for Instituted Ministries.”
 8. The National Review Board gave a report on the work of the Board. Mrs. Healy reiterated the goal to heal and protect children from sexual abuse. Much progress has been made since 2002. The most recent report shows continued significant progress. Seventeen cases were reported last year nationwide. Our goal is to reach and maintain zero cases. The committee discussed a National Day of Prayer to remember the survivors and to ask God to bless our work in this regard. Survivors will teach us how we can continue to offer healing.
 9. The bishops supported the beatification cause for Adele Brise, a laywoman from Green Bay. Thanks to all of you who supported us in prayer during the meeting.
Questions for Archbishop Aymond may be sent to [email protected].