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

The U.S. bishops concluded the second day of their annual fall assembly in Baltimore, focusing on migration, human dignity, and care for creation as part of the church's evangelizing mission.

Bishop Mark J. Seitz of El Paso emphasized the need for unified leadership on migration issues. "The clergy continues to have a strong moral voice to which the laity listens," he stated, urging consistent and intentional teaching from church leaders.

The assembly also addressed human dignity through discussions led by Bishop Robert E. Barron regarding the Vatican declaration "Dignitas Infinita." The focus was on applying its teachings to American society to emphasize that humans are both corporeal and spiritual beings.

In preparation for the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis' encyclical "Laudato Si’," Archbishop Borys A. Gudziak proposed integrating it into evangelization efforts. He suggested traditional practices like abstaining from meat on Fridays could benefit both spiritual life and environmental health.

The bishops approved a new mission directive for 2025-2028 with a vote of 225-7, aiming to prioritize evangelization efforts toward those unaffiliated with or disaffiliated from the Church.

Bishop Barron presented plans for a document updating lay ecclesial ministry guidelines, emphasizing co-responsibility within the church while avoiding clericalizing laity or restricting lay ministry to professionals.

Archbishop Charles C. Thompson discussed implementing Pope Francis' call for lay catechists, informed by recent synodal discussions.

Latin Church bishops approved several liturgical texts, including Spanish versions of the Liturgy of the Hours and revisions to the New American Bible for liturgical use.

Bishop Timothy C. Senior announced nearly $2.3 million in grants from the Catholic Campaign for Human Development after financial difficulties earlier this year had paused grant activities.

A proposed budget for 2025 was presented by Bishop James F. Checcio, maintaining financial stability despite inflation concerns, with no increase in diocesan assessments.

Outside the conference venue, Bishop Joseph Strickland held a press conference criticizing Pope Francis and other bishops while not participating in the assembly himself.

During an internal discussion about synodality, Archbishop William E. Lori emphasized cultural change over structural changes within church communities. Bishop Daniel E. Flores highlighted learning opportunities from poorer communities about communication and humility within church structures.

The assembly began on November 11 and concluded with an executive session closed to public view on November 14.