Pastoral Conversion according to the Congregation of the Clergy: A Critical Reading of the Instruction ‘The Pastoral Conversion of the Parish Community in the Service of the Evangelizing Mission of the Church’ (2020)

The Congregation for the Clergy situates its 2020 Instruction on the reform of parish structures in the context of pastoral conversion. This article complements the Instruction in two ways. First, it offers a reflection on the various possible meanings of the technical term ‘pastoral’, which was coined by John XXIII, embraced by the Second Vatican Council, and re-introduced by Pope Francis. The term points to a concern for the faithful which may lead to a) a willingness to adapt the presentation of the faith to render it more understandable; b) an openness to learn about God and conceive the faith differently; c) an awareness of the need for a communication style that witnesses to the faith because of its atmosphere of dialogue, invitation, and trust; d) an interest in salvation and well-being. The article further complements the Instruction by specifying how it could deepen its commitment to pastoral conversion. An analysis of the Instruction’s argument suggests that its main concern is the reform of ecclesial structures within the guidelines provided by canon law. Thus, it seems to understand pastoral in the very basic sense of ‘relating to pastoral work’. A true pastoral conversion requires greater attention to virtues such as humility and detachment.