There was lively debate on the first day of the spring general assembly of the U.S. bishops meeting in Bellevue, Washington yesterday. Archbishop Robert J. Carlson from St. Louis presented a proposal to authorize a 50-page document on preaching for consideration in November 2012.
As reported by Catholic News Service, the topic seemed to light a spark in the bishops with about a dozen speaking in favor of the proposal. There apparently was concern that the homily was not being fully utilized as a opportunity for catechesis. They also want to look at the obstacles to good preaching such as time constraints, communication issues and cultural conflicts.
It will be interesting to see what is developed here. I certainly do know that many of the faithful are asking for and missing good preaching and proclamation of the Word of God.
As deacons, we need to pay particular attention, as this is such a central part of who we are and what we do.
