The Eighteenth Synod of the Archdiocese of New York: An historical study
Abstract
This dissertation is an attempt to study the Eighteenth Synod of the Archdiocese of New York in the light of conciliar concern with communio and with the theology of the local church focusing specifically on how the diocesan synod can be seen as a possible means of renewal in the life of a particular or local church. Renewal of the local church depends upon a shared sense of responsibility in promoting the Church's mission. This conciliar and post-conciliar emphasis upon the theology of the local church and upon a renewed sense of communio as a norm for relationships within the Church, provides a theological basis for viewing the diocesan synod less as a hierarchical, and more as a collegial expression of pastoral renewal in the life of the local church. Both conciliar and post-conciliar ecclesiology contributes to an understanding of the diocesan synod as a particular collegial process wherein all those who constitute a local diocesan church can identify, discuss, and undertake a shared responsibility for the church's pastoral mission. Although this dissertation is concerned primarily with an historical study of the Eighteenth Diocesan Synod of New York, specifically its underlying theological perspectives, preparation, proceedings, and directives as an expression of collegiality, an effort is made to situate this consideration within the previous synodal history of the Archdiocese of New York from 1842-1950. The study of this canonical history attempts to show how the history of the local diocesan church should be seen within the context of both the national and universal church if it is to be properly understood. The 1988 Synod of the Archdiocese of New York evinces how a diocesan church can engage in a process which proposes a clearly defined pastoral plan for diocesan renewal. In its preparation, proceedings, and product, the 1988 Synod was an expression of collegiality in the life of the local diocesan church. As such, the Eighteenth Synod of the Archdiocese of New York was a genuine attempt to implement the conciliar notion of communio as a means to effectively undertake the renewal of the local church in its spiritual and pastoral mission. (Abstract shortened with permission of author.)
Subject Area
Theology
Recommended Citation
Rossi, Pat F, "The Eighteenth Synod of the Archdiocese of New York: An historical study" (1992). ETD Collection for Fordham University. AAI9223824.
https://research.library.fordham.edu/dissertations/AAI9223824
