The Church in the 21st Century

The Church in the 21st Century: Occasional Papers

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TITLE:
Is the Church Open to Change in its Governance? Some Historical Evidence

AUTHOR(S):
Michael J. Sheeran, Regis University

DOCUMENT TYPE: Article

ABSTRACT:
Father Michael Sheeran,S.J., President of Regis University (CO), highlights changes related to the selection of bishops and the election of popes that have occurred throughout the Church's history. He also discusses the contemporary American experience of a laity increasingly well-educated and competent in professional expertise but often not well-educated "in the Faith." He calls for a "new evangelization" and for greater access to significant decision-making.