Synodal structures in the Roman Catholic diocese

Abstract One of the ten guiding principles from the 1967 Synod of Bishops on the revision of the 1917 Code of Canon Law was that a new Code should present the office of bishop in accord with the norms given in the conciliar decree, Christus Dominus . In the 1917 Code, canon 329 stated that bishops ‘govern with ordinary power under the authority of the Roman Pontiff’. The change in the revised Code would reflect that bishops do not act as vicars of the Pope but as vicars and legates of Christ. To support the bishop in his ministry, there are a number of structures outlined in the Code which provide him with opportunities for consultation and listening, and which allow participation by others, both clergy and lay faithful. After defining what is meant by the word ‘diocese’, this article considers the role of bishops, and then looks at the channels outlined in the 1983 Code for ‘consultation’ and ‘listening’. After briefly outlining the challenges arising in terms of processes, accountability, and consultation, this article examines the possible shared principles between the Roman Catholic and the Anglican tradition.