Young diocesan Catholics are being asked to complete an online questionnaire about issues facing young people and their faith.
The Diocese of Rochester is offering the questionnaire — available through July 24 at at www.dor.org/home/index.cfm/2018-synod-of-bishops-questionnaire-young-people-faith-and-vocational-discernment — in response to Pope Francis’ request for input in preparation for the 2018 Synod of Bishops on Young People, Faith and Vocational Discernment.
The questionnaire consists of 24 questions derived from the preparatory document created by the XV Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, according to Shannon Loughlin, diocesan associate director of Pastoral Services. Each question requires a written response, but Loughlin noted that participants do not have to give answers to every question in order to submit the questionnaire.
The survey is open to all members of the diocese between the ages of 16 and 29, a range Loughlin said was determined by the Synod of Bishops. Some questions are geared toward young people who are active in church life, while others address those who are not connected to the church. A third group of questions is oriented toward those who minister to young people.
In addition to the questionnaire, Loughlin said the diocese will be gathering the input of young people through small focus groups presented by area parishes. Parishes interested in hosting focus groups may obtain information by contacting Loughlin at Shannon.Loughlin@dor.org.
Loughlin said responses from the questionnaires and focus groups will be incorporated into a report that will be sent to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Sept. 15. After gathering responses from dioceses around the country, the bishops’s conference will submit a national report to the Synod of Bishops.
