Polarization in the U.S. Catholic Church: Naming the Wounds, Beginning to Heal ed. by Mary Ellen Konieczny, Charles C. Camosy, Tricia C. Bruce (review)

Dealing with a timely topic, Polarization in the U.S. Catholic Church is the product of a 2015 University of Notre Dame conference, where the eighteen articles in this volume were delivered. The contributors include several well-known authors, but more than half are newer scholars and several are not associated with educational institutions. This variety provides a fresh interpretation of long-term neuralgic problems for the church and adds creative approaches to solving them. The usual concerns about gender, sexuality, and authority are addressed, along with serious consideration of the link between religion and politics. Generational differences and changes in parish structures are deliberated in depth, along with approaches to overcoming polarization.

The four organizing themes are usefully arranged in a time-related framework, beginning with “This Moment in the Church,” where six experienced authors describe aspects of the ecclesial situation by indicating how their own religious histories reflect their views of the present. A common lament is the loss of fruitful discussion between generations, based in part on the lack of knowledge of the faith, minimal levels of investment, and the introduction of ideological and political agendas. Yet they express hope in finding sources of unity through sympathetic listening and attentiveness to reconciling voices, especially that of Pope Francis.

The second part, “Naming the Wounds,” communicates clearly the cultural conflicts and polarizing public debates that have infected the church. Divergent parish perspectives are pointed out, with questions raised about the value of “personal parishes” in which like-minded members may function contentedly, but in fact may prevent necessary conflict that simmers without resolution in the church as a whole. One author believes that the existence of many family-oriented parishes, where the focus is on service, belies the view of widespread polarization. The many ways unresolved ecclesial pain is experienced by LGBTQ Catholics is described, along with the plight of college students who are labeled as ill-informed or misinformed or both.

Part three, “Assessing the Problem,” is in some ways more positive in tone, where again some authors question the extent of polarization. Providing hopeful signs for the future and citing the advantages of ecclesial movements, a Focolare member finds ways to bridge discourse and widen the horizon for engagement. This approach is “not only about identifying principles and values,” but also about the suffering of people and the need for loving compassion. In reflecting on race and polarization, the final chapter of this section deals with the consequences of broken discourse in race relations, and also offers some options for creating solidarity by talking across lines, paying attention to pluralism, and seeking communities committed to justice.

The last section, “Looking to the Future,” fittingly considers the significant role of millennials in the twenty-first century as they form the base for church and society. One edifying example explains how one college student turned participation in the pro-life movement from what were perceived as alienating activities to unifying dialogue. Of equal consequence is consideration of the future position of Hispanics as the strength of the church. In a compelling chapter, the author speaks of the “unheeded middle,” represented by Hispanics, and the potential for being evangelized by them through their deep sense of ecclesial community. The final chapter and conclusion look at the possibility of transcending and resisting polarization, leading to the expectation of hope for the future. The author believes that offenses of polarization against truth and charity can be overcome by resisting judgment and embracing solidarity.

For anyone interested in a more harmonious yet dynamic future for the Catholic Church, there are many reasons to study this book. Whether leading parishes, teaching college students, or participating as a family in parish life, all can find wisdom. Thread throughout the chapters is evidence of the impact Pope Francis...