Experiment in synodality Continues with Bishop Lucia Assuming Three Parishes
Bishop Douglas J. Lucia of Syracuse, New York, is currently serving as pastor of three diocesan parishes in addition to his episcopal duties. This unusual arrangement, a result of staffing shortages and challenges with obtaining religious worker visas, is seen as an opportunity to live out synodality and to convene a diocesan synod.
Before becoming a bishop, Lucia served as pastor of a parish for about three years. His decision to take on parish duties was a result of his past experience with parish work and his reflection on the needs of the diocese.
The Diocese of Syracuse has 78 active priests to serve 102 parishes and 133 worship sites. Bishop Lucia mentioned that upcoming ordinations will not significantly alleviate the priestly shortage due to high retirement rates among priests.
Bishop Lucia has faced issues with the visa process for some of his diocesan priests, causing delays and potential departures. About 90% of U.S. dioceses rely on foreign-born clergy to address staffing gaps, but Bishop Lucia mentioned challenges with obtaining religious worker visas under the Trump administration.
To balance his episcopal and parish ministries, Bishop Lucia dedicates Mondays to visiting each of the parish staff, offering daily Mass, and visiting the school. His daily routine includes a daily Holy Hour, physical exercise at least four times a week, and taking Fridays off.
The newest phase of the synodal process focuses on how it applies to parishes and is seen as a real opportunity to be a living experiment of synodality. Bishop Lucia is not trying to tell other bishops what to do, but is hoping to model the idea of a pastoral team to show how working together can allow the church to flourish amid challenges.
The Diocese of Syracuse has received help from religious orders, such as the Dominicans of St. Joseph. The new Mass schedule allows Bishop Lucia to take care of confirmations in the afternoon and handle other events.
Bishop Lucia's decision to take on parish duties was not a part of his initial plans upon becoming a bishop. However, his love for the outdoors, with the Erie Canal near the three parishes he is serving, allows him to enjoy kayaking and biking in his free time.
Despite the challenges, Bishop Lucia remains optimistic about the future of the Diocese of Syracuse. He has been trying to convene a diocesan synod for three years now, but has been waiting for Pope Francis' announcements about the synodal process to align.
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