Catholic Ministers for Church Renewal


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	2004-2011 Activities included the following, as well as common prayer at each meeting and regular check-ins on members' joys and challenges in their ongoing ministerial service. 2004 w 2005 w 2006 w 2007 w 2008 2009 w 2010 w 2011 w 2012 2012 March Reviewed questions sent to Dean M. Markuly, STM for June 22 meeting with him, and discussed strategies for inviting members to that meeting (including email rsvps). Agreed to postpone the meeting with him if insufficient numbers warrant that. Heard report on the March 15 talk given by Fr. Paul Janowiak for the inauguration of the Cathedral lecture series connected with the 50th anniversary of Vatican II, and were reminded of subsequent lectures in that series. In addition, our E-List moderator offered to contact all on the mailing list for information on Council anniversary events in their parish/area, and to communicate the same to the membership on an ongoing basis. Spent time sharing current highlights of our individual ministries. Discussed, refined, and agreed on meeting dates for 2012-2013. Reviewed fact sheet on workshop and speakers, for discussion around a speaker and focus for our 2013 workshop. Included in fact sheet: speakers and topics of workshops from 2005 to 2011; suggested possible speakers (four being added at this meeting) and possible focus of presentations; working and actual budgets of 2011 workshop; and information concerning the Commonweal Speakers Program. Gained consensus to explore two options in the latter program, and, as a back-up Ii needed, to consider two specific local church leaders. Had a helpful in discussion assessing the current status of CMCR, and preliminary reflection on how we might envision CMCR in the future. January Spent time sharing hopes and challenges we experience in our various ministries, noting dimensions of ecclesial tension and our responses. Received update about presentation on “The Politics of Translation: Responding to the Revised Roman Missal” by Fr. Anthony Ruff, OSB, Jan. 14 in Tacoma, discussed his forthcoming visit, and expressed support for CMCR notification of the event. Received copies of our 2008 Statement on the (then forthcoming) 50th Anniversary of the Second Vatican Council. Consensus was reached at the last meeting to re-issue this. Edited a draft introductory letter for this Statement. Agreed that the letter and the Statement will be circulated by email the end of August to all on our CMCR mailing list, as well as to our bishops, Chancery Department Leaders, a special CMCR Contact List, Call to Action, Seattle University School of Theology and Ministry, National Association of Lay Ministers, and all parishes. 2011 November Brainstormed on questions for future meetings with Fr. Bryan Dolejsi, archdiocesan vocation director, and with Dr. Mark Markuly, STM dean; suggested target dates for meetings with them. Received update about presentation on “The Politics of Translation: Responding to the Revised Roman Missal” by Fr. Anthony Ruff, OSB, Jan. 14 in Tacoma, discussed his forthcoming visit, and expressed support for CMCR notification of the event. Agreed to CMCR mailing of bi-annual fund appeal in January. Viewed a 50 minute video on Vatican II--its beginning, direction, energy, commitment to aggiornamento and change --and briefly discussed it. October Spent the first part of meeting sharing ministry experiences since last Spring. Discussed content proposals for future meetings, especially relating to visits with local church leaders. Received handout on Vatican II in retrospect. Reflected together on Fr. Kevin Hegarty’s address to Irish Association of Catholic Priests: “Priestly Ministry Today: An Insider’s View.” Briefly discussed the approaching use of the new Roman Missal. June Received update on medical condition of Sue Ford, who has an inoperable malignant brain tumor. Reviewed the April 1 Gaillardetz Workshop at SU: report, evaluation form responses, working and actual budget, and check book balance after the event. Discerned a recipient for our annual fiscal stewardship gift, and agreed on a $300 gift for the Catherine Mowry LaCugna Endowed Scholarship to be awarded in the 2011-2012 academic year by Seattle University’s School of Theology and Ministry to a Roman Catholic lay student of the School’s choice who is pursuing the STM Catholic curriculum. Heard executive secretary updates: audio of the 4/1 workshop presentation is now on CMCR website; Chancery is notified of CMCR decision to not renew Archdiocesan Catholic Directory listing for next year; CMCR website domain is renewed for 2 years; CMCR post office box is renewed for 1 year; STM has confirmed meeting room uses for next program year; several fiscal gifts were given CMCR , and one to NCR, in conjunction with Roger O’Brien’s 50th Jubilee. Decided, after discussion, not to hold a workshop in Spring 2012 (and possibly to continue this pattern of every-other-year workshops in the future), but to explore, in the Fall, a possible event in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the opening of Vatican II (Oct. 11, 2012). Brainstormed on strategies for enhancing participation at regular meetings (including, among other things, presentations and listening sessions). Directed leadership team to write a letter of congratulations to Dr. Richard Gaillardetz on his election as vice-president of the Catholic Theological Society of America. Discussed national gathering of American Catholic Council, and Archbishop Sartain’s June 9 letter to Roger O’Brien in response to Fr. O’Brien’s April 29 letter to him concerning the rite of commitment renewal at this year’s celebration of Chrism Mass. Heard a report on, and had a conversation about, the just completed Priest Days. April Seventy participants gathered at Seattle University’s Campion Tower Ballroom April 1, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, for the sixth annual workshop in the ”Solidarity and Hope Series” offered by Catholic Ministers for Church Renewal, led by Dr. Richard Gaillardetz, professor of Catholic Studies, University of Toledo, Ohio, on “Ordering the Ministerial Life of the Church”. Dr. Gaillardetz first discussed three foundational principles for contemporary ecclesiology: the priority of the baptismal call of all the faithful, the church in mission, and the church as an ordered communion. Through table reflection on possible forms ministry takes in contemporary church life, and through a further presentation, he offered this description of ministry in today’s church: “Christian ministry is the expression of a baptized believer’s new public relationship within the life of the church, flowing from the Spirit’s charism and an individual’s personality. It is generally subject to formal preparation, ritualization, and ordering of church leadership, and is undertaken on behalf of the church to build up the Body of Christ, and to proclaim, serve, and realize the kingdom of God.” He underscored the public character of ministry, and suggested that it is subject to all the following: communal discernment of charisms (ministry, he observed, is not volunteering), formation for ministry, authorization (which takes different forms and happens at the diocesan or parish level), and, generally, liturgical ordination, installation, or commissioning. Finally, Dr. Gaillardetz reflected on the ministerial ordering of the church from two perspectives. First, ordination for the ordering of apostolic ministry of oversight. And, second, ordering of ministries beyond ordination by way of “Installed ministries” (recognized nationally, such as the installed ministries of lector and acolyte promulgated by Pope Paul VI, who invited Episcopal Conferences to name other such ministries – which could include what we today identify as lay ecclesial ministry), and “commissioned ministries” (short term ministries, recognized by particular churches, such as what we identify today as Director of RCIA, youth ministers, catechetical ministers, liturgical ministers, outreach ministers, pastoral council ministers, etc.). Participants took time to visit over lunch at the University’s Cherry Street Café, followed, when they regrouped in session, by animated table discussions and dialogue with the presenter. The workshop began, and concluded, with liturgies evoking imagery, reflected in scriptural proclamation, communal prayer, and ritual action, of the baptismal call of all the faithful to proclaim, serve, and advance the coming reign of God. March After Lenten prayer, we spent considerable time sharing reflections on where We find hope in our lives and ministries. Heard a very kind response from Archbishop Sartain to our Feb. 9 letter of welcome to him, with information about our group and an invitation to join us for our Arpil1 workshop. “May God bless all of you,” he wrote, “and, together, may we work for growth in holiness, faith and peace among all members of the Church.” Affirmed our website activities page listing meeting resumes in reverse order, starting with the current year back to 2004, and agreed to leave the information for all years on that page so that anyone seeking specific information can find it there rather than having to go an ‘archives’ listing. Acknowledged receipt of the Intercommunity Peace and Justice Center’s invitation to their April 12 Annual Benefit Dinner. Received detailed updates on planning for our April 1 workshop: registration process and number responding, worship, publicity, space set up at SU, and speaker’s lodging and transfers from and to airport. Reviewed proposed meeting dates for 2011-2012, and agreed on them. Discussed at length Richard Gaillardetz’s article, “The State of the Church, 2011: Reflections on the State of American Catholicism Today”. January Heard Executive Secretary report: update on member John Bauman’s counseling ministry at parishes; Christmas greetings received; April Workshop (team planning worship, Dr. Gaillardetz’s airfare and lodging secured, initial registrations, next publicity dates; current balance in checking account, archdiocesan policy on Speaker Clearance for events sponsored by groups listed in Catholic Directory; contact from a Portland lay minster on support CMCR provides in his setting. An envelope was passed for contributions for the Winter Appeal from members having been previously unable to make an offering. Spent time sharing what we are hopeful for in our ministries in the next three months. Offered suggestions for a letter of welcome to Archbishop Sartain, decided on an editing team, and discussed manner of presenting the letter and enclosures to him (by mail, followed by a meeting of some of our representatives with him, or meeting with him at which time the letter and documents are given him). Discussed, refined, and gained consensus on a new CMCR Process for Dealing with Public Policy Statements. Had a conversation about a possible statement on the issue of violence and bullying, which was so much in national news last fall, and agreed that we did not have consensus to proceed with that statement at the present time. Discussed our listing in the Archdiocesan Directory and agreed to let that lapse when renewal time comes. 2010 January Spent time in prayer and sharing on the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity theme, “You are Witnesses of These Things”. Heard a engaging detailed presentation from Fr. Emil Andersen, psychologist and retired priest of Eire serving as extern in our Archdiocese, and entered into lively conversation with him, on psychological dynamics at work in church leaders’ styles when/if their service becomes fundamentalist. Received notice of thanks from Mark Marukly, Ph. D., Dean, Seattle University School of Theology and Ministry for priest names generated at the November meeting for a lunch with these pastors; sent Dr. Markuly condolence letter on the occasion of his mother’s death. Were informed of some 25 responses of gratitude to Apostolic Visitation Statement, including messages from Bishop Remi de Roo and the President of LCWR. Accepted a cordial letter from Archbishop Brunett with regards and wishes for us as during Advent. Received notice of extensive publicity already initiated for our May 7 Workshop at Seattle University by Dr. Richard Gaillardetz: Surviving in a Polarized Church: Spirituality for Living with Ecclesial Tension. Discussed current information concerning Fr. Michael G. Ryan’s America article and its website response of more than 12,000 signatures from 48 countries. Received an invitation from Kathleen Kichline, newly named chair of VOTF’s initiative on Women’s Leadership to join in that project.Were invited to begin initial discussion on the focus for, and leadership of, the Spring 2011 Workshop, the sixth in our ‘Solidarity in Hope ’ Series. March Spent time doing personal sharing on our ministries. Received update on status of What If We Just Said Wait proposal on test piloting new Missal translation, now signed by 19,946 parties in 74 countries. No action will be taken in our archdiocese; website manager has indicated names and dioceses of those signing will be published in a booklet and sent to USCCB leadership, BCDW, and bishops in English-speaking countries. Members agreed to have CMCR E-list moderator invite members to signal their intent if they wish to receive communications from VOTF Task Force on Initiative on Women in the Church, such communications being forwarded to the moderator by Kathleen Kichline, who chairs that VOTF task force. Were given update on registrations and planning the May 7 SU workshop led by Richard Gaillardetz. Had brief discussion on focus and possible speaker for the May 2011 annual workshop, with agreement to return to this ate our June meeting. Noted meetings dates for next program year. Enjoyed an extended and enjoyable conversation with Fr. Tom McMichael and his wife, Karin, who, after 17 years in Lutheran ministry, sought full communion in our church, Tom being ordained in 2009 and currently serving five Skagit Valley parishes. Topics explored included: Impact of full communion with our church and RC ordination on both Toms and Karin’s families of origin. Theology of ELCA in which Tom was ordained and served. Their decision and ecumenical dialogue. Their warm reception both by the Archdiocesan presbyterate and by lay people in our church. Biblical literacy and scripture study in the Reformation tradition and in our own tradition. How some people seek Tom out to talk or celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation because he is married. Karin’s experience as wife of an ordained minister before and now. Moving around to geographically different sites in the Lutheran experience. Levels of fiscal giving in Lutheran congregations and in RC parishes. Pastoring in generally small communities in the Reform tradition and in substantially larger ones in the RC tradition. May 110 lay persons and ministers (lay ecclesial, religious, and ordained) from the Archdiocese of Seattle, and from Yakima, Portland, and Dubuque, IA gathered May 7 at Seattle University for the fifth annual Solidarity and Hope Series workshop (sponsored by Catholic Ministers for Church Renewal), “Surviving in Polarized Church: Spirituality for Living with Ecclesial Tension”, led by theologian, lecturer, and retreat leader, Dr. Richard Gaillardetz, who holds the Murray/Bacik chair of Catholic Studies at Toledo University. Common worship began and ended the day. Presentations were followed by table discussion, then conversation with Dr. Gaillardetz, with a lunch break mid-day at Cherry Street Café. Dr. Gaillardetz began by noting that our church has never been free of crisis, and that it has an ongoing need for reform and renewal. His morning presentation dealt with cultural and ecclesial forces which contribute to polarization. --Cultural forces include: Demographic shifts in the U.S. that find people associating with communities of lifestyle and political choice that are increasingly partisan. The ‘common sense bias’ that assumes there are no complexities to issues, no grey areas. The politics of demonization that ridicules and caricatures opposing perspectives, making people feel more secure in, and feeling no need to rethink, their own position. --Ecclesial forces include: Gregory VII’s reforms which saw all truth and grace descending hierarchically from the highest to the lowest, papal centrism, and ordained priesthood as power without pastoral responsibility. The threatened dissolution of, and polarization, around Catholic Identity - resulting in people (including young Catholics today) constructing what they find valuable apart from central church values. Consumerism (not secularization), which turns religion into a commodity. Dr. Gaillardetz’s afternoon presentation dealt with spirituality and theological resources for living with ecclesial tension. Here, he spoke to: Reclaiming the Catholicity of our tradition, meaning, positively, embracing diversity within our tradition and, negatively, avoiding reductionist approaches to our faith. Wrestling with our tradition, that is, searching what is found problematic while knowing that such wrestling will not result in total, irrevocable clarity. Insisting on fundamental distinctions central to our Catholic tradition. Demanding accountability in the sense of the entire community exercising it. Cultivating the Practice of ‘Holy Conversation’: knowing we are a pilgrim church on journey while living humbly and patiently with this, listening to those we disagree with, and remaining open to conversion. Dr. Gaillardetz shared that unless we use these theological and spirituality resources, we will find it hard to overcome the toxic tensions in our culture and our church. June Discussed developments in our respective lives and ministries. Received, and discussed, detailed report on the highly successful May 7 Workshop at Seattle University on “Surviving in a Polarized Church: Living with Ecclesial Tension” led by Dr. Richard Gaillardetz: Press Release, Evaluation Form Results, and Working and Actual Budgets. Agreed to make this year’s annual stewardship gift to Seattle University’s School of Theology and Ministry for a student pursuing the Roman Catholic curriculum in his or her Masters Program with the gift to be awarded in full in the 2010-2011 academic year in the form of one credit’s worth of cash (approximately $500) for a student of STM’s choice, with the request the student be notified of the donor. Received and discussed briefly the Executive Secretary’s report, including: Various written and phone contacts with CMCR on provision of pastoral care in Tacoma Deanery, personal visit with interested potential members Sean and Rachel Doll O’Mahoney, a Kennedy High School teacher, a man interested in seeking priestly ordination, request to be included on CMCR email listservice, request from a woman in Kenya seeking funds for University education in Africa; Inclusion of CMCR in next Archdiocesan Directory; Disposition of ‘What If We Just Said Wait” project, and recent Tablet notice that Vox Clara has hired the head of BCDW to review and make changes in some wording of the ‘approved’ new Missal; CMCR’s post office box is renewed for the next year, and its Website domain is transferred to the name of Roger O’Brien; fees paid for both; Digest of CMCR’s 2006 A Prophetic Stance of the Heart: Collaborative Ministry Today was made by Dennis Lucey for use with pastoral ministers at San Juan Bautista CA retreat center (copies given CMCR members). Agreed, after discussion, to ask Dr. Richard Gaillardetz to return in April, 2011 for our 6th ‘Solidarity and Hope Series’ Workshop with a discussion of lay and ordained ministry as ordered ministries grounded in baptism, within a framework that heals the divide often separating the lay and ordained. Heard an account of the recent Priest Days from Fr. Woody McCallister. Discussed at some length Catholics Come Home: extent of publicity, results after the TV advertising, costs and sources of funding. Agreed at our first meeting next fall to review our approach toward CMCR rapid response policy statements concerning social justice issues. October Spent time in prayer, and sharing about both our ministries and our perspectives on the new Roman Missal. Received thanks from SU School of Theology and Ministry for CMCR June Scholarship Gift; reviewed overall plan for April 1, 2011 CMCR Workshop by Dr. Richard Gaillardetz on ‘Ordering the Ministerial Life of the Church’; noted ‘Outside Speakers Archdiocesan Policy’; learned about Dr. Maureen O’Brien’s national consultation with lay ecclesial ministers on their experience and ministry. Discussed at length possible new approach to CMCR rapid response mechanism for public policy statements (especially with regard to social justice and political questions), and invited leadership team to bring to November meeting draft of a new proposal. Noted recent CNS article on Irish Association of Catholic Priests and their impressive agenda for renewal, and articles by J. Allen on Catholic demographics and the future of ministry, and by P. Steinfels on the American Church’s crisis of attrition. November Meeting was cancelled to allow participation in farewell Mass and reception for Archbishop Brunett. 2009 January Seventy people gathered January 25 at Seattle University for an evening of prayer and reflection, sponsored by Catholic Ministers for Church Renewal, in celebration of Blessed Pope John XXIII’s declaring to a surprised world fifty years ago that very day that he had decided to convene an Ecumenical Council. Joining the celebration were members of parish communities from Skagit Valley, Arlington, Olympia, Kent, Puyallup, the Eastside, and Greater Seattle. Also joining were two Lutheran pastors, Jesuits from Seattle University, and professors at the University’s School of Theology and Ministry. Fr. Roger O’Brien, an archdiocesan senior presbyter, led the opening Prayer Service, which included hymns, scripture, and texts from, and about, the Second Vatican Council. Sue Ford, Pastoral Associate at Holy Disciples, Puyallup, read the scripture. Val Keller, Pastoral Assistant for Faith Formation at St. Benedict, Seattle, read a text on the Council. The assembly prayed an invitation for renewal in the spirit of the Council, and concluded with the hymn Sing a New Church. Participants had time to share with everyone what parish they had come from and what brought them to the celebration. They then enjoyed dinner and time for visiting. After the meal, reflections were offered by Fr. Patrick Howell, S.J., SU Vice President for Mission and Ministry and former dean of the SU School of Theology and Ministry, and by Patty Repikoff, former Pastoral Life Director at Seattle’s St. Therese and Christ the King parishes, and currently Eastside Catholic Community Hispanic Ministry Coordinator. Fr. Howell reviewed the Council’s call to ‘aggiornamento’: encounter with the modern world, healing ecumenical divisions, and commitment to be a church for the poor. He spoke about key issues, such as liturgy, the relation of our Church to the Jews and to non-Christian religions, religious liberty. He mentioned the challenge of interpreting the Council (as either revolutionary or as sustaining continuity with prior teachings), and outlined the ‘style’ of the council as persuasive (rather than condemnatory), relational (rather than juridical), and inviting (rather than authoritarian). He closed with words spoken by Archbishop Hunthausen in 1994: “What we really need in our church and world today is an in-pouring of the Spirit…and to recognize that the Spirit is always there. The Spirit is a gift. We cannot make the Spirit happen, but we need to have a sense of anticipation. We need a miracle. Expect one. Be a people of hope always.” Click here to read Father Howell's remarks. Patty Repikoff began by observing that seventy five percent of U.S. Catholics have no direct memory of the Vatican Council. In storytelling and poetic words she offered vivid images of Vatican II. One is the image of the Council as God’s Spirit unleashing fire in our lives to be renewed in the gospel. She noted that, at the same time, this can lead to an encounter “with powers and principalities…and can lead to our getting burned because of stances we take.” She asked if we are anxious about a certain retrenchment in interpreting the Council, spending huge energies on small brush fires (standing or kneeling, for instance). “Do we get drawn away from our true task,” she asked, “and reduce our mission to keeping ourselves safe?” She observed that continuity with the past and change for the future are part of any authentic dynamic of growth, and challenged people “to let the Spirit flame us.” Her contention was that we have barely begun to implement the Council. She spoke of two major gifts of the Council for our church and world: the call to identify church as the People of God – sharing in God’s life through water and the Holy Spirit, and the call of every baptized person to discern what charisms they have for the building up of the Body of Christ. She spoke passionately of our call to holiness, of living our baptism, of praying over the documents of Vatican II, of the need to nourish spirituality and preaching that speaks to our times and the life of prayer, of the need to acknowledge our church as bigger than our Western world model, and of the radical call to be in solidarity with the poor. Participants spent some time discussing with each other what struck them most forcefully in these observations, then had a lively dialogue with Fr. Howell and Dr. Repikoff on a variety of questions: spirituality, prayer, dealing with conflict about Vatican II, distinguishing the center and periphery in church life while living the Council’s legacy, solidarity with the poor, finding common ground with our Protestant sisters and brothers in pastoral ministry. Everyone received A Statement on the Forthcoming 50th Anniversary of the Declaration of Vatican II, issued last November by Catholic Ministers for Church Renewal, outlining its assessment of the Council’s gifts, its hopes for the future in light of the Council, and catechetical resources for parish formation about the Council and its legacy. The evening ended with a singing of Send Us Your Spirit, and a closing prayer in thanksgiving for the gift of the Council and for hope to be continually renewed in faithfulness to the gospel. March Spent the first half of the meeting in a forum discussion of challenges facing us in ministry in our parishes, such as pastoral leadership in a theologically polarized parish, the failing economy’s impact on parishioners, budget constraints due to the economy (including laying off of pastoral ministers), unavailability of unemployment insurance for lay ministers, initial considerations on archdiocesan guidelines for providing pastoral care to parishioners who opt to participate in physician assisted suicide. Signed and forwarded cards of well wishes and prayers for husband of Bobbie Beaudreau and Fr. Steve Sallis, who are dealing with cancer. Reviewed the CMRC Jan. 25 evening of celebration and prayer at Seattle University on the 50th Anniversary of the Declaration of Vatican II, and expressed gratitude for the event. Discussed and gained consensus on links to include in CMCR website. Also received notice that this website’s server had a power surge, had crashed, and will now need to be reconstructed. In the meantime, the option will be explored of using a simple home page incorporating information on the CMCR printed informational brochure (to which notices can be added). Agreed to invite Anne Fredericks, Archdiocesan Office of Catholic Faith Formation to CMCR June meeting, to affirm our gratitude for the inauguration of “Companions in God’s Service”, the newly begun professional certification program for lay ecclesial ministers, so she can share how this program is developing in its initial stages and offer responses to a few clarifying questions we developed. Received copies and discussed Kathleen Kichline’s newly published Sisters in Scripture (Mahwah: Paulist Press, 2009), and warmly applauded her achievement. Received notice that CMCR has requested to be included in the next edition (and website version) of the Archdiocesan Directory’s listings of ‘Organizations and Services’. Learned current balance of CMCR checking account. Brainstormed on inviting (and agreed to pursue the invitation of) Richard Gaillardetz for our May 28, 2010 workshop on “Surviving Spiritually in a Polarized Church: Spirituality for Living with Ecclesial Tension.” Asked the Leadership Team send Archbishop Brunett a letter of gratitude for his Feb. 15 Letter on Immigration and his remarks on that in the Mar. 5 Progress. Agreed to offer this year’s CMCR tithe to Intercommunity Peace and Justice Center, with a gift of $200 for their Northwest Catholic Women’s Convocation. Brainstormed on issues for our June and October meetings. June Had a cordial and helpful extended conversation with Dr. Anne Frederick, Director of Religious Education, Archdiocesan Office of Catholic Faith Formation, on the recently begun archdiocesan certification program for lay ecclesial ministers: number of participants, qualifications for entry, specifics of training in the program. She noted that recognition is not made for certification in pastoral ministry already received from another institution. She also indicated that commissioning will now be celebrated at the Cathedral, which does not preclude the pastor acknowledging the certified minister ritually in their parish of service. Received an extensive Executive Secretary Report on CMCR website restoration, CMCR inclusion in the forthcoming Archdiocesan Directory, its contribution to the Intercommunity Center for Justice and Peace, a budget update, and notice that Richard Gaillardetz has agreed to lead our May 7, 2010 workshop at Seattle University on Surviving in a Polarized Church: Spirituality for Living with Ecclesial tension. Took offerings for our spring biannual collection; contributions donated at the meeting and received by mail yielded $340. Exchanged comments on participants’ ministries, changes in ministry, recent placement of new pastors, and the value of CMCR speaking to the needs of lay ecclesial ministers. October Visited with Dr. Mark Markuly, S.U. School of Theology and Ministry Dean, who updated us on recent new directions: interreligious and inter-cultural dialogue planning, recruitment in new geographical regions, inclusion of major international speakers among faculty visitors, development of eco-spirituality and eco-justice theology in future curricula. We also had a fruitful exchange on deepening awareness of STM’s role and function among archdiocesan parish leaders. Heard a report from Kathleen Kichline on her recent book tour visit to parishes in the East whose ‘vigiling’ members sustain a vibrant community life and mission despite the parishes having been closed due to financial constraints. Shared hopes and challenges of our respective ministries over the last four months. Discussed these ‘current affairs’: R. McBrien’s 9/14/09 article, “Alternate Thoughts for this year for Priests”, which cited without attribution the reflections of Fr. Jan Larson, and listened to a letter of thanks to Fr. Larson from Bishop Tom Gumbleton; the Apostolic Visitation to Institutes of U.S. Women Religious; the 9/23/09 Ongoing Education Day for Priests (possible vision statement from Archbishop, ‘Catholics Come Home’ Program, draft policy on pastoral care in cases of assisted suicide, Referendum 71); CMCR’s still pending request for inclusion in the Archdiocesan Directory’s “Organizations and Services” section. Heard comments on, and responded to, the detailed report, in the agenda, on the CMCR May 7 Workshop on “Surviving in a Polarized Church: Living with Ecclesial Tensions.” November Discussed at length the two Vatican studies of U.S. Women Religious, then edited and gained consensus on a Statement on the Apostolic Visitation of Institutes of Women Religious in the United States; directed copies be sent to the papal nuncio, Washington D.C., Cardinal Rodé. Rome. Msgr. C. Brown, CDF, Rome, Bishop L. Blair, USCCB Doctrine Committee, Archbishops and Bishops of Region XII, LCWR President and Regional Chairperson, and all Archdiocesan parishes; agreed on the Statement’s being included on CMCR website’s Documents Page. Considered a draft of Reflections on Vatican Structures for Anglicans Seeking Full Communion with the Roman Catholic Church, and agreed, after conversation, to include it on CMCR website’s Documents Page, with an invitation for readers to offer comment in response. Took up the biannual Fall CMCR Appeal from members in attendance, whose generosity, with gifts received by mail, resulted in contributions of $350. Shared comments on the just completed USCCB Fall Meeting, with specific reference to Cardinal George’s opening address and his establishment of three bishops’ committees to develop guidelines for determining what will be considered legitimate Catholic entities; received copies of David Gibson’s article on this in Politics Daily. Received Executive Secretary’s report on correspondence sent, notification that CMCR will be included in ‘Organizational Listings’ of next year’s Archdiocesan Directory, checking account balance, copies of publicity/registration flier for next May’s workshop on “Surviving in a Polarized Church: Spirituality for Living with Ecclesial Tension”, and copies of the workshop’s Overall Plan (team, focus, speaker, fee, budget, schedule, registration, lunch specifics, prayer services, evaluation form, publicity, and news releases after the workshop). Brainstormed and developed, at request of SU’s School of Theology and Ministry, proposed names of archdiocesan ministers for a luncheon to be hosted by STM to offer information on the school’s vision and mission. 2008 January Detailed report on planning for the May workshop. Report on efforts to renew and update CCM website. Agreement to extend to all on mailing list invitation to express fiscal support of CCM. Notification that AJ Boyd wishes to step down from leadership team responsibilities. Notice of April “National Ministry Summit” in Florida; of Bishop Remi de Roo’s efforts to invite Canadian Bishops to make a statement on forthcoming 50th anniversary of Vatican II; of Jan. 25th Church Council of greater Seattle’s sponsorship of Week of Prayer for Christian Unity event. March Personal sharing on two questions: 1) Where do you find signs of discouragement in your ministry setting, and 2) Where do you find signs of hope? Highlighted were written comments on living with ecclesial tensions, drawn from: D. Antonia, Davidson, Hoge, Gautier, American Catholics Today: New realities of Their Church, Charles E. Curran, Loyal Dissent: Memoir of a Catholic Theologian, and Benedict XVI, On Christian Hope, Spe Salvi. Report on winter request for donations, and budget update. Website update: Maria Laughlin, at the Cathedral, willing to redo our failed website. Report on May Workshop planning. Consensus to move toward developing a statement on the forthcoming declaration of Vatican II. Expression of appreciation and support for member departing our leadership team, and cards of consolation to Holy Disciples staff and Fr. Jim Dalton on the sudden and untimely death of our beloved colleague, Fr. Paul Dalton. June Reports on May workshop: evaluations, income/expenses, news releases. Agreement to invite a drafting team (with specific names mentioned) to work on a statement on 50th anniversary of declaration of Vatican II, bringing draft to fall meeting as well as initial proposals on how to use the statement. Agreement to change dates for 08-09 meetings so as to avoid existing conflicts: fourth Friday of October, January, March, and June; third Friday of November (to avoid Thanksgiving); and annual May workshop. Update on website restoration. Agreement to discern replacement for AJ Boyd on Leadership Team at October meeting, with understanding there will be two co-leaders and a standing executive secretary (R. O’Brien willing to serve latter position). Agreement to cancel planning for May 09 annual workshop in favor of support for NW Catholic Women’s Convocation, plus consideration of our sponsoring an Evening of Prayer and Reflection (i.e. Evening Prayer, and reflection/conversation with Fr. Mike Raschko on Vatican II: its significance and ongoing challenge). Report from AJ Boyd on meeting of Benedict XVI with national ecumenical leaders during his April pastoral visit to U.S. Report on, and conversation with CCM members participating in, “Emerging Models of Pastoral Leadership” National Ministry Summit in Orlando, Florida, April 20-23. October Personal sharing took place on ministry experiences since last meeting. Notice was given that change of name to Catholic Ministers for Church Renewal is now completed, on new website, checking account, and post office box. Several expressions of gratitude for what we do and for our new name were received, including a warm letter from the Archbishop noting that the name represents our intent “to be a positive force within the Church.” The new website is upgraded and arranged with splendid graphics, thanks to the work of Maria Laughlin, who has graciously offered to keep it updated. Discussion took place, and agreement was reached, on adding some new links to the website. Mark Markuly, new dean of at SU School of Theology and Ministry, invited Roger O’Brien to a meeting this month to get acquainted, and expressed his enthusiasm and support for CMCR. We projected, and agreed on, meeting dates for 2009-2010, in order to secure meeting space at SU. Agreement was reached on putting in place a structure for making a CMCR rapid media response when needed. Agreement was also reached on CMCR offering an annual fiscal tithe, with a reminder of coupling that with tithing of participants’ service and time for CMCR projects and ministry. Editing Team distributed final draft of “A Statement on the Forthcoming 50th Anniversary of the Declaration of Vatican II”, with proposed use and process for CMCR to edit it and discern its affirmation at the November meeting. In response to Call To Action’s invitation, CMCR agreed to serve with CTA as co-sponsor of a Spring lecture in the Seattle area by Donald Cozzens. Kathleen Kichline led the group in a prayerful discernment process to affirm a second co-leader. The decision was, for the time being, to have only two co-leaders--our present ones. November Contributed to, and launched, our biannual Fall donation appeal. Engaged in final editing of, gained consensus on, and unanimously approved our Statement on the Forthcoming 50th Anniversary of the Declaration of Vatican II. Agreed on strategies for publicizing the document. Chose to cancel our scheduled January meeting in favor of hosting a special evening celebration January 25, the 50th anniversary of the Council’s Declaration, at Seattle University, with vespers, dinner, distribution of our Statement, reflections by Patty Repikoff and Fr. Patrick Howell, SJ, and group discussion and sharing. Received reports on: preparatory work on CMCR website links, Nov. 20 gathering of presbyterate around issues of secularity and faith (“Catholic Identity” questions, cancellation of the D. Cozzens anticipated Spring lecture hosted by CTA because of Cozzen’s overloaded a schedule, response of a CMCR member’s respectfully declining to serving on leadership team due to ministerial overload, agreement of Fr. M. Raschko to serve as theological consultant to any CMCR ‘rapid response’ to bishops-church leaders/media, availability of meeting space at SU for our 2009-2010 program year, and production of new CMCR Brochure by Maria Laughlin. Agreed to hold discussion of questions relating to new Archdiocesan Certification Program for Lay Ecclesial Ministers until our March meeting. "Most of us who listened to our baptismal call and chose a life of ministry in the Church did so out of deep commitment and a spirit of generosity. We committed ourselves to a journey of discipleship and collaborative service. These are prophetic stances of the heart." (Fr. John Heagle) 2007 January Discussion on upcoming May workshop, with recommendation that it be put on hold for this year, given several circumstances. Report on, and discussion of, a member’s recent visit to South Africa and observations on the life and direction of the Roman Catholic Church there. March Agreement to cancel the May workshop this year. Agreement to invite James Eblen and Victoria Ries to do a mini-retreat for members at the June meeting. Exploration of whether to develop a list of criteria for selection of successor to incumbent Ordinary, with consensus that this would be a valuable exercise. June Discussion of recent transitions of pastors, with inquiries about the reasons for these, especially as they affect the status of Hispanic Ministry. Agreement to contact NALM for possible speaker at the May 08 workshop centered on Co-Workers in the Vineyard. October Retreat for group led by James Eblen and Victoria Ries, with reflection and animated group discussion, on their experience of collaboration in ministry. Resource persons made use of their article, “In a Mirror Darkly: February, 2002. Praying with an Icon,” in New Theology Review, examining the theology of the Trinity and connecting it with relational sharing at the heart of collaborative ministry. Reference was also made to Catherin LaCugna’s powerful God For Us: The Trinity and Christian Life. Bi-annual invitation for members to contribute to CCM. November Prayerful discernment and specific planning for the May Report on workshop, to be led by Christopher Andersen, Executive Director on the National Association for Lay Ministry, on Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord: Resources for Guiding the Development of Lay Ecclesial Ministry. Consideration was given to: speaker’s ministry clearance from archdiocese, location, time, working budget, fee, publicity, registration, and hospitality. Tasks were designated to accomplish the planning. 2006 January Detailed critique of policy statement on collaborative ministry, suggestion for finalizing and editing text, and prayerful discernment resulting in full consensus to adopt A Prophetic Stance of the Heart: Collaborative Ministry Today; further discussion on, and affirmation of, plan for distributing the statement. February Review of the May workshop focus and planning. Distribution of final edition of A Prophetic Stance of the Heart, and update on the Christifdeles training program for lay ecclesial ministers. Agreement on a gift for Pat Howell, departing STM dean. Brainstorming on current CCM goals and strategies for implementing them, and discussion on forthcoming new archdiocesan liturgical policies. March Final affirmation of policy statement on collaborative ministry. Further discussion on possible name change of group. Report on CCM letter to Archbishop on homosexuality and priesthood. Update on planning for May workshop. Discussion on, with agreement on strategies for, enhancing deacon and presbyteral membership in the group. Update on establishing CCM website. Report on Selection of Bishops Group’s recent meetings. Expression of individual support for colleagues who have lost ministerial positions through restructuring. April Discernment, with aid of facilitator Pat Buckley, on change of name for our group. There not being compelling indication for a change, it was agreed to retain current name (and postpone further discussion until no earlier than next November). Biannual collection for CCM taken up. Update received on forthcoming May workshop. Report on meeting of two on leadership team with Advisory Board of STM for overview of A Prophetic Stance of the Heart: Collaborative Ministry Today, at which Board strongly affirmed the policy statement and asked how it could be incorporated into STM formation and curriculum, and how it might be used in parish discussion groups. Announcement of new formatting for CCM website. Invitation to March with workers May 1 at St. Mary’s Parish. June Review of May workshop and planning ideas for 07. Report on extensive responses to A Prophetic Stance of the Heart: Collaborative Ministry Today. Report on possible discussion with Bishop Tyson on new Liturgical Guidelines, and on possible conversation with archdiocesan ministry training leaders on how candidates are being trained for collaborative ministry. Discussion on leadership team membership for next program year. Report of, and discussion with, a CCM member on his parish team’s visit to sister parish in Africa. September Meeting was cancelled due to major schedule conflicts. October Extended conversation on training of ministry candidates in collaborative ministry with Rich Shively from Archdiocese and Mark Taylor from STM, with input from H. Oesterle on archdiocesan Christifideles program. Report on ideas for forthcoming May workshop. Discussion of meeting timing and formats, and consensus to conduct email survey (with respect for deanery meeting schedules, etc.). Result of survey resulted in decision to meet the first Friday of October, November, January, March, and June, May being given over to the annual workshop. November Affirmation of dates for new meeting schedule. Update from Dr. M. LaBarre on STM “Pastoral Leadership Program”. Discernment for Leadership Team members with resultant choices of AJ Boyd, Luciann MacDonald, and Roger O’Brien. Report on bank balance, groups utilizing our statement on collaborative ministry, and communication with potential new priest and deacon members. Sharing of letter of appreciation from Fr. Michael Ryan to CCM’s letter congratulating him on his 40th ordination anniversary. 2005 January Strategized on ways to implement CCM’s 2004-2005 goals and took action most of these (see above and below). February Began a conversation on possible change of CCM name. Agreed to reduce meetings to nine a year (skipping July, August, and December). Reflected on the value of including younger lay ministers in our group. Joined with CTA and VOTF supporting the Feb. 3 Symposium at S.U. on governance and accountability in the church. Co-sponsored with CTA and VOTF an evening conversation with Paul Lakeland at S.U. March Had an extended visit and conversation with Mary Santi and Carla Caldwell about advocacy for, due process for, and support of lay ecclesial ministers. April Had initial discussion with Jackie O’Ryan about CCM’s approach to communications. Agreed to change meeting times to 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM. Discussed question of dues, and ways to enhance membership. Continued the discussion on possible name change of CCM. Reviewed March meeting with Mary Santi and Carla Caldwell, and agreed to Task Force on Chancery Relations sending letter to Mary Cross as follow-up from March meeting with them; letter was sent in July – no response as of September. May Sponsored May 20 “Solidarity and Hope: Finding Partnership in a Church in Crisis” workshop, led by Fran Ferder and John Heagle for 75 participants. June Reflected on the May workshop, and discussed follow-up action. Agreed to establish a checking account (done by July). Agreed to open a post office box (done by July). Agreed, in lieu of dues, to periodically invite membership to make contributions to CCM for its ministry (begun June). Participated in workshop by Jackie O’Ryan on “How CCM Communicates”, involving power point presentations around these questions: who are we talking to, how do we get their attention, what do we say, how do we make sure they hear it? September Had an extended visit and conversation with Paul Magnano and Leigh Stringfellow (his office chief of staff) on priest policy and placement issues, and, given the lack of structures, the Chancery’s challenge in recognizing and supporting lay ecclesial ministers who wish to work collaboratively with presbyters. Received notice that CCM website is up and running. Received report from Task Force drafting statement on collaborative ministry that the first draft is completed, will be reviewed by November, then passed on to Mike Raschko and Pat Howell for comment, and hopefully be in the hands of CCM members by early December for discussion and vote at January 2006 meeting. Agreed to discontinue discussion about possible name change of CCM (for lack of energy on the question). Agreed to host another ‘Solidarity and Hope’ workshop May 19, 2006. Engaged in pre-discernment for new Leadership Team members; ascertained readiness of existing members to continue if invited. Let the greatest among you be as the youngest, the leader as the servant. I am among you as the one who serves. (Luke 22:26, 27) October Reviewed Sept. Discussion with Fr. P. Magnano and L. Stringfellow on priest policy matters. Received report on VOFT meeting on election of bishops. Received report from last May meeting of CCM members and Office of Lay ministers on mentoring of lay ministers. Discussed developing a communications team, as well as strategies for obtaining an email list of all diocesan ministers. Discerned membership of leadership team, with consensus on AJ Boyd, Kathleen Kichline, and Roger O’Brien remaining on team. November Heard report on data base being developed for electronic communication of forthcoming policy statement on collaborative ministry. Update given on meeting of local group concerning selection of bishops. Discussion on hosting possible listening sessions focused on last May’s workshop on finding partnership in a church in crisis. Review of current CCM goals, with discussion on strategies for implementing them. 2004 September Reviewed printed information on lay preaching in two parishes, and discussed this practice in four other parishes. Discussed establishing a standing Communications Team. Engaged in pre-discernment for new Leadership Team members; ascertained readiness of existing team members to continue if invited to. October Utilized a lengthy, prayerful, and detailed process of discerning new Leadership Team with ultimate affirmation of 2004-2005 team as A. J. Boyd, Kathleen Kichline, Roger O’Brien, and Amy Vraney Virnig. November Received progress report from Task Force drafting a statement on collaborative ministry. Learned that the group exploring a statement on lay preaching considered it wise to put the project on hold. Heard report on Nov. 8-10 Pacific Northwest Symposium on “Emerging Models of Pastoral Leadership”, at which several CCM members participated. Adopted these goals for 2004-2005, which, were acted on by October 2005 as described below in italics: A. Primary issues: CCM identity, publicity, membership and viability. Clarify if CCM is action group or support group. Action: agreed strongly at January meeting it is an action group, and decided to invite for future conversations M. Santi and C. Caldwell, and P. Magnano. Develop a CCM Brochure. Action: accomplished by April (in time for NWCatholic Women’s Convocation) and included by September on CCM website. Decide whether to establish a standing Communications Team. Action: agreed to use May 20 workshop as way of familiarizing participants with CCM; educated membership on communication theory, need, and strategies at its June workshop with Jackie O’Ryan; and continued discussion on value of a Communications Team. Discuss how to strengthen membership. Action: production of CCM Brochure and inauguration of website; discussion took place on developing a list of potential members. Discuss whether CCM should continue as a group: Action: agreement to continue was implied in other decisions CCM took (see above). B. Secondary issues: Complete statement on collaborative ministry. Action: first draft was completed September 05, with goal for it to be affirmed by CCM (after a review process took place) by February 06. Begin a focus on broader justice issues than those involving ecclesial justice. Action: none. Reflect on what people in the pews need and want right now. Action: no explicit action. Gain consensus on whether CCM might serve as catalyst for bringing together leadership of CTA, VOTF, and/or other similar groups to address issues of common concern. Action: several events during the year were co-sponsored with these groups. I have come to cast fire upon the earth; and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is accomplished! (Lk. 12:49-50)
Catholic Ministers for Church Renewal P. O. Box 3054 Lynnwood, WA 98046 info@catholicministers.org