Pope's Reform Plans, Bigger Than Expected

Rome Reports
October 3, 2013

http://www.romereports.com/palio/popes-reform-plans-bigger-than-expected-english-11195.html#.Uk2uJoaTguc

[with video]

October 3, 2013. (Romereports.com) The Vatican spokesman has announced that Pope Francis isn't planning on reforming the Vatican's Apostolic Constitution. Rather, he's planning on drafting a completely new document, that deals with the governance of the Church.

FR. FEDERICO LOMBARDI

Vatican Spokesman

“The idea is not limited to updating the current 'Pastor Bonus' constitution, with small tweaks here and there. Instead the Pope plans on drafting a new constitution that includes new relevant changes. I think we can expect a new constitution.”

The new law will highlight two main aspects. First, that the Roman Curia shouldn't be a power house, but instead it should be 'at the service' of the Universal Church. Also the Vatican's State Department will more of a branch rather than a full governing body.

The Council of Cardinals recommended that a 'moderator' be assigned to coordinate the relationship between the Pope and the dicasteries of the Church. The council of eight cardinals is also analyzing how the role and work of the laity can be recognized more directly within the Church.

FR. FEDERICO LOMBARDI

Vatican Spokesman

“Special attention will be given so that institutions can adequately respond to the laity and the service they provide to the Church. Currently we have a Pontifical Council, but that relationship and presence could be strengthened so that the Curia is more involved with the laity.”