THE pontifical councils on the laity and the family were studied in particular depth at the latest meeting at the Vatican of the Council of Cardinals.
This was reported in a statement from the Vatican on July 4.
The statement on July 4, the last day of the gathering, described the latest meeting of the council as “free, frank and friendly”.
The nine-member council of advisors to Pope Francis on the reform of the Roman Curia was meeting at the Casa Santa Marta. Its next round of discussions are scheduled for September 15-17, December 9-11, and February 9-11.
The Vatican statement explained that with regard to the themes considered, as well as those indicated in recent days, such as the Governorate, the Secretariat of State and the Institute for the Works of Religion, the council resumed its reflections on the dicasteries of the Curia.
The laity and family were studied in particular depth, especially in terms of the contributions and roles that should be assumed by lay people, married couples and women. Decisions were not made, but more detailed proposals were offered that will subsequently be inserted into the overall framework of the new configuration of the Curia.
Other themes on which there has been an exchange of opinions during the meetings include the nunciatures and their work, and the procedures for the appointment of bishops.
The overall tone of the meetings was described as “free, frank and friendly”. The Pope participates naturally in the dialogue, promoting a climate of free expression.
There are still no texts that may be considered as drafts of a new constitution, since the work proceeds in the form of partial contributions, generally presented by individual cardinals charged with the task of studying specific matters.
Zenit
