By Charles Igwe
The Vatican is set to host a significant event in the ecclesiastical calendar as Cardinal Marc Ouellet, Prefect Emeritus of the Dicastery for Bishops, in collaboration with the Centre for Research and Anthropology of Vocations (CRAV), prepares for a follow-up to the 2022 symposium centered on the theology of the priesthood.
Scheduled for March 1-2, 2024, this Congress, themed “Man-Woman: Image of God. Towards an Anthropology of Vocations,” marks a continuation of the ongoing ecclesial exploration into the theology of vocations. Cardinal Ouellet shares the motivation behind this initiative.
He emphasizes that this initiative builds upon the success of the Symposium held in February 2022, focusing on “Toward a Fundamental Theology of the Priesthood.” Within the Church’s synodal research, there is a commitment to foster active participation among all the faithful, aimed at achieving deeper ecclesial communion with a direct impact on the mission.
A synodal Church, by its nature, extends its growth beyond theoretical discussions and seeks active engagement in nurturing vocations. Cardinal Ouellet highlights that the central theme of the priesthood has emphasized the role of all baptized individuals in the priesthood of Christ. Additionally, it underscores the pastoral service that ordained ministry offers to the broader priestly community of the baptized.
The upcoming anthropological theme of “Man-Woman: Image of God” on March 1-2, 2024, signifies a continuation of this synodal research. It seeks to delve into the foundational aspects of Christian anthropology, which serve as the bedrock for building vocations based on the Word of God. This exploration takes place against the backdrop of contemporary cultural trends that pose questions and uncertainties about human and Christian identities.
Cardinal Ouellet underlines the significance of a synodal Church’s inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of welcoming everyone in society. However, he underscores the need for a firm anthropological foundation rooted in the Word of God to ensure the Church’s witness stands strong.
This initiative, organized by CRAV with the support of Pope Francis, will witness the personal participation of the Pope during the two-day Congress at the Synod Hall.
The Cardinal also shares his expectations for the Congress, hoping it will provide reasons for hope and engagement. In the face of challenges such as loneliness, individualism, and crises of hope in secularized societies, Christian anthropology offers a path of faith in Christ as the transcendent foundation. It also offers clear reference points for human vocation and reasons to live in service of Love.
The Christian vision of man and woman promotes self-giving as a means to happiness and self-realization in service and communion with others within a framework of solidarity and brotherhood with all of humanity.
Cardinal Ouellet anticipates that this Congress will offer a contemporary perspective for educators and trainers in Christian formation across various domains, including families. This event encompasses academic research with international participation and the potential for publication in multiple languages.
