Explanation

The Task Force on Provinces recommends the simplification of the Canons regarding Provinces based on the guiding principles the Task Force established for its work. The Task Force sought to focus the work of the Province on supporting the mission of the Church rather than on maintaining parts of the system focused only on the organization of the system itself. Energy given to maintaining a system is energy taken from supporting the mission or work of the system. The language also enables provinces to organize themselves as they determine is best for their needs, geography and resources. In keeping with the sense of diversity apparent in the provinces at this time, it is not helpful to bind them to a system of “synods” with the assumption that each province is identical to the others. Hopefully, these changes create a more flexible system, able to respond as able to the mission needs of the Church.