Rome Meeting Statement from Bishop Moriarty, by KandLe Team, Roman Catholic Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, February 20, 2010

Rome Meeting – Statement from Bishop Moriarty

By KandLe Team
Roman Catholic Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin
February 20, 2010

http://www.kandle.ie/2010/02/20/bishop-moriarty-statement/

IRELAND/VATICAN CITY -- Meeting of Irish Bishops in Rome

Following the meeting of the Irish Bishops in Rome, I would like to share a few thoughts and some information in addition to the official Vatican press release.

Obviously the gathering in Rome was a unique event. The amount of time and attention given personally by Pope Benedict was very impressive. Likewise the senior Curia members present were fully engaged and made their own contributions. The various sessions that took place over Monday and Tuesday were long and intense. It was certainly a worthwhile dialogue at the highest level.

As you are aware, each Bishop had an opportunity to address the gathering. The contributions were wide-ranging, consciously so to avoid repetition. Along with addressing the impact on survivors, our continuing outreach to them, the on-going management of safeguarding in the Irish Church, some Bishops addressed issues like the role of laity, church communications, the Churchs role in Education and priestly formation.

In my own contribution, I explained how my offer of resignation came about and spoke about the need for unity and a deeper sharing of the mission that transcends the kind of clerical culture that led us here.

The Vatican Press Release should not be viewed as the last word. Pope Benedicts pastoral letter which is expected in mid-March is the document to focus on. A draft copy of the pastoral letter was shared with the Bishops and we had an opportunity to offer comments. While taking on board these comments, the pastoral letter will be the Holy Fathers document.

It is important to emphasise that this process is on-going and more steps are to follow.

In regard to my offer of resignation, separate from the general meeting, I had a private meeting with Cardinal Re, the Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, who is dealing with it. The acceptance of my offer of resignation is proceeding. My understanding is that it is not a question of if but when. It will not happen immediately but should not go too far beyond Easter.

I am seeking ideas about how priests and people might engage with the letter from the Holy Father and how together we might identify some tangible initiatives that might follow. This might involve forums at parish, deanery or diocesan level.

Any ideas or suggestions can be forwarded to your local priest or directly to me here in Bishops House, Carlow.

As always we keep the survivors in our prayers at this time and pray that this Lenten season may be a time of true renewal in the Irish Church.