I vescovi invitano alla comunione

Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, president of the CEI, opened the Permanent Council meeting by calling for the implementation of the proposals in the summary document, Lievito di pace e di speranza. He stated that a priority for the council is to provide continuity to these proposals, which are being studied by the CEI, including a reform of the statutes, and are already being worked on in individual dioceses.

Zuppi described communion among bishops as a way to make the Church's message credible. He noted that listening to one another and sharing responsibilities are essential parts of preaching the Gospel rather than just organizational steps. He emphasized that unity is intended to help the Church reach the world with the Gospel rather than serving as a way to protect the Church from it.

The cardinal also called for a spirit of mutual care among bishops and in communion with the Successor of Peter. He suggested that this requires a willingness to share burdens and the freedom to speak frankly while continuing to listen to one another.