This week’s events in Washington, D.C., have stunned not only the U.S. but observers around the world. I cannot but continue to underscore the need for each of us to deepen our own spiritual lives so that we can face these challenges with calm, clear hearts and minds. After all, peace comes from God, fear and anxiety from the devil.
At the same time, I’m struck by how the principles of transparency, accountability, and truth that we base GICM’s work upon are the same principles needed for healthy societies everywhere. In particular, transparency builds community cohesion, whether in civil society or the Catholic Church. The lack of confidence in the U.S. election of 2020 has led to dangerous fractures in our society that threaten our entire political order. Transparency regarding what happened could help overcome the current strife especially with civil discussion about our shared principles and common goals. Likewise in the Church, a culture of transparency—with the brightness of the Star of Bethlehem and the Word made Flesh— will facilitate a more effective evangelization with truly organic cooperation between laity and clergy.
Earlier in the week, the Australian Bishops asked Pope Francis to investigate the US$1.8 billion (yes, billion with a ‘b’) that was transferred to Australia from the Vatican or its affiliates over the past seven years. None of that money went to the Catholic Church and none of the Australian Bishops were aware of these transfers. You see, the theme of transparency really is relevant everywhere. For more on the story, check out this video interview with Sky News Australia and this helpful article by Inés San Martin at Crux.
The events of this week make next week’s webinar with Cardinal Pell even more relevant. While we’ll be focused on creating a culture of transparency in the Church – a huge topic in its own right – these same principles apply to governments and societies of every size, including the family. Please join us for this exciting conversation. Watch it here. As always we welcome your help in spreading the word. Feel free to forward this email and share on social media.
Pia de Solenni
Dr. de Solenni is President & Executive Director of the Global Institute of Church Management. She is a theologian, ethicist, and cultural analyst. She recently served as Chancellor of the Diocese of Orange, California, and Theological Advisor to the Bishop. Her work has appeared in various publications including The Wall Street Journal Europe, The Washington Post, National Catholic Reporter, Our Sunday Visitor, and National Review Online. She is also a consultant member of the Pontifical Academy of St. Thomas Aquinas.
