Office of Synod Implementation

Charter for the Regional Pastoral Councils

Introduction | Purpose/Function | Membership | Meetings | Amendments/Appendix

Article I | Introduction

Archdiocese of Los Angeles, January 30, 2004

I have come to set the world on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!

--Luke 12:49[1]

But you are "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may announce the praises" of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

--1 Peter 2:9

Through these Councils, we specifically acknowledge the role of the laity and the "requirement to exercise all ministry in a more communal and collaborative fashion."

In keeping with the Gospel imperative and as God's "chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation," we, the people of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, have spoken through the Archdiocesan Synod of 2003.[2] We have heard the challenge to carry out our baptismal promises as sharers in Christ's priesthood, prophetic ministry, and kingship.[3] We recognize that we must continuously strive to lead a holy life, promote the growth of the Church and its continual sanctification,[4] and carry out our responsibilities to the universal Church and to our local Church.[5]

Therefore, we embrace the Synod's call for the establishment of Regional Pastoral Councils. Through these Councils, we specifically acknowledge the role of the laity and the "requirement to exercise all ministry in a more communal and collaborative fashion."[6]

The Church proclaims that all the faithful are free to make known their needs--especially their spiritual needs--and wishes to the pastors of the Church.[7] The faithful have the right, indeed at times the duty, in keeping with their knowledge, competence and position to manifest to their pastors their views on matters which concern the good of the Church.[8] Therefore, each Regional Pastoral Council will work in dialogue with its Regional Bishop for the good of the Church as a whole, assisting him in his role as a sign of unity.

It is this unity, ablaze with the fire of the never-ending day of Pentecost, that empowers us to take the Gospel into our hearts and out to the world.

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[1] As contained in the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' Go and Make Disciples: A National Plan and Strategy for Catholic Evangelization in the United States, 1990.

[2] Gathered And Sent, 2003, Pastoral Initiative II, Strategy 2.

[3] ibid., Pastoral Initiative IV, Pastoral Priority.

[4] Code of Canon Law, Canon 210.

[5] Canon 209

[6] Cardinal Roger Mahony and the Priests of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, As I Have Done for You: A Pastoral Letter on Ministry, 2000, no. 77

[7] Canon 212, §2

[8] Canon 212, §3