A Message From Bishop Henry J. Mansell

Catholic institutions and organizations are unique. We are called by God to high standards. We must give an honest account of our attitudes and our actions in light of the Gospel message and the teachings of the Catholic Church.

There are many ways to gauge what it means to be uniquely Catholic. This booklet examines some of these elements. In our group discussions and personal reflections, we may discover other aspects of Catholicity. These discussions and reflections are important.

One of the dangers Catholic institutions and organizations face in the world today is the push toward secularization and loss of religious identity. The trend toward separation of Church and State puts pressure on religious institutions to downplay our spiritual roots and deny our ethical, moral, intellectual and theological foundations. At times, the pressure is overt and takes the form of legislation, regulations or policy-making that results in financial penalties or professional restrictions. At times, the pressure is subtle and takes the form of ridicule, prejudice and discrimination.

Catholic institutions and organizations continue to resist the pressure. By focusing on the positive elements of Catholic identity in our institutions and our organizations, we safeguard our long tradition of Catholic service to people at all levels of society. In reaching out to those in need, we are faithful to our evangelizing mission and the Gospel imperative to teach all nations. Through discussions and reflections on what makes Catholic institutions and organizations unique, we instill a solid sense of Catholic identity in this generation and in future generations.

I am grateful for the growth and well-being of Catholic organizations and institutions in the Diocese of Buffalo and for their leaders, many of whom we convened for a special meeting in June of 1998.

Representatives from all levels of education, health care, social service agencies, religious communities, and the regional Episcopal Vicars were gathered to identify the strengths and challenges we face as we move into the 21st century. We reached agreement on the following areas:

• to build on our strengths by expanding our collaborative efforts;
• to develop the full potential of Catholic services on an integrated basis;
• to maintain the Catholic identity of all our institutions

In order to address the issues of Catholic identity, an Ad Hoc Committee was established with representatives from each group. Their names are listed herein. Their aspirations led to the creation of this booklet. It is their hope and mine that it will be used to build on our strengths, to activate more of our potential, and to foster even greater collaboration. 

May the Holy Spirit continue to bless and inspire the good work that we do in service to the Church and the people of God.