[maryz]

I don't know what you mean by Trusteeism. Could you explain?

Thanks.

[Renatus]

"I don't know what you mean by Trusteeism. Could you explain?"

Basically, it is the taking over of parishes or dioceses by lay persons as trustees who would then rule and control the parishes or dioceses. It was a real danger in the early days when the Church was being established in America beginning with Bishop Carroll of Baltimore. It finally was brought under control but I see dangers ahead with people calling for lay boards and lay participation on boards in an attempt to deal with the present so-called crisis. It goes back to the very nature of the priest and bishop who is solely configured configured to Christ as head and shepherd. Trusteeism attacks the very nature of the priesthood. I hope our bishops don't succumb in this area. Things could get REAL nasty if they do. I personally see the National Catholic Reporter making this take over the top item of their leftist agenda.

[Renatus]

Forgot to state in my post above that Canon Law does have safeguards to help protect the Church. The law states that Parish Councils are to be CONSULTATIVE ONLY. It goes on to mandate that in Parish Council meetings the Pastor is the one who is to chair the meeting. This is not the common practice in the US. Another sign of the lack of vigilance by our bishops.