Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has approved a new "mission directive" for the years 2025 to 2028. This directive outlines the strategic vision for the conference over the next four years and was adopted by a vote of 225-7, with two abstentions.

The previous strategic plan from 2021 to 2024 was themed “Created Anew by the Body and Blood of Christ: Source of Our Healing and Hope.” It emerged from listening sessions with bishops, the National Advisory Council, and USCCB staff who reflected on challenges and opportunities faced by the church during that period.

For 2025-28, this mission directive serves as more of a mission statement than a theme. Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, chair of the conference’s Committee on Priorities and Plans, led its development. The mission directive states:

“Responding even more deeply to the call of Christ to proclaim the Gospel and form Missionary Disciples, the Committees and Staff of the USCCB, submitting to the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, will prioritize the work of the Conference to help equip bishops, clergy, religious, and laity in evangelizing those who are religiously unaffiliated or disaffiliated from the Church, with special focus on young adults and youth.”

Archbishop Coakley explained that this directive is meant to guide USCCB committees' work rather than replace it.

During a brief discussion on November 12th prior to voting, there was general support for this new direction. Auxiliary Bishop James Massa from Brooklyn requested an addition referencing Jesus Christ which was included through an amendment process. Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley also suggested emphasizing safeguarding issues along with addressing concerns related to women’s roles and combating racism and bigotry within this directive.