"The same phenomenon is happening in the church today. Those in authority might consider the present upheaval to be a bad dream. In many ways it is, especially for those who are survivors of clergy sexual abuse. It is also a knock at the door, an invitation to change the way the church operates. Ordinary and common people are experiencing a new vision of church, one that challenges a small cadre of decision-makers unaccountable for their actions."

"As has happened in many parts of the country, the Archdiocese of Milwaukee held "listening sessions" for those who wanted to be heard. The one I attended was in a parish hall packed with faith-filled Catholics who were also angry, concerned and very vocal. They were knocking at the door of the hierarchical structure demanding accountability and reform. Theirs was a united voice of both traditional and progressive persuasions that demanded redress for wrongs and coverups. Their voices also called for a leadership that would include both married and single people, male and female. The church is undergoing a shift in awareness and vision not unlike that experienced by Peter, the first pope. It can no longer be contained within limited boundaries and narrow ways of acting."

The more successful pastoral councils have operated as joint efforts of leaders and pastor together. Pastors give authority to the councils to participate in the decision-making of the parish. This may serve well as a model for change in church structures as a whole.

"Converting a parish to a more consultative and inclusive style of governance must be genuine and not merely rhetorical. The days in which people accepted the word of a bishop or pastor without question are over. Perhaps this is the most profound consequence of a shift in attitudes. The laity want change, and they want to participate in what those changes will be."

***

"To regain the trust and confidence of the laity, diocesan structures will have to become more open and accountable, with built-in checks and balances. Advisory councils will not be enough. The same thing must happen on the diocesan level as on the parish level, where pastors share authority with staffs, pastoral councils and commissions. In those dioceses where shared decision-making structures are already in place, these must become more visible."

"If it is true that the bishop is the one ultimately in charge, then he has it within his power to change the system and culture of the diocese to one of shared authority and mutual accountability."

***

"A new way of operating is demanded on the parish level as well. The pastor was not ordained to be an administrator. His charism is spiritual leadership. The pastor could give over the details of running a parish to others who are trained and have enough expertise to direct the complexities of parish life. The parish's operation could be restructured so there are checks and balances on all levels, where pastors and staffs are accountable to lay leaders and vice versa. A new tradition of accountability and creative planning has to be established"

"A new way of acting is demanded of the church as a whole. Peter had his awareness greatly expanded when he entered Cornelius's home. The same is needed today. The view, for instance, that the church can be run only by an all male, celibate clergy is no longer credible. People demand change because they think, a more inclusive priesthood will provide a larger pool of candidates and a more balanced priestly ministry. ."

Before jumping into a worldwide conclave, however, regional gatherings should prepare the ground. This is already happening in the listening sessions being held in many dioceses. A groundswell is beginning. It will not be denied. Local councils for the church in Chicago or Boston or Atlanta could lead to an American council, which in turn would contribute to an agenda for a world-wide ecumenical council. Change is in the air; the Spirit is falling on all who hear the word (Acts 10:44). Unfortunate as the recent tragic events have been, the people are catch- ing on that they are the church. It is to be hoped that church authorities will "get it" as well and respond appropriately.