Swiss delegation backs decentralisation of Catholic Church
A Swiss delegation has called for greater decentralisation of the Church at the close of the Synod of Bishops in Rome on Saturday. For the first time, “non-bishop” men and women were able to vote, including Swiss delegate Helena Jeppesen-Spuhler.
Switzerland wants local churches to be able to decide for themselves on certain issues, says a press release issued by the Swiss Bishops’ Conference (SBK) on Sunday. It also advocates “greater participation and involvement by all, and highlights the themes of priestly celibacy and the ordination of women”.
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The Swiss delegation, led by SBK President Bishop Felix Gmür, also included Claire Jonard, expert facilitator at the Synod.
The symposium, which opened on October 4, is the culmination of a worldwide consultation launched by Pope Francis in 2021 to involve all believers in a reflection on how to strengthen the Church. Presented as a priority, the question of the place of women has met with the strongest resistance.
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