One of the changes, different from the past, was an approach to problems that came from below, and not from above. The bishops worked with the results of what the church members wanted to see changed, and the bishops agreed to be the first to change. They will approach problems with their actions more than words, in the manner of Pope Francis. One of the editorials are waiting to see how the bishops will be an example to the Church.
A survey by the bishops was distributed by e-mail, and on the bishops' homepage. +During Pope Francis' visit the most memorable scene. +Words that moved you the most in his talks. +The word that comes to mind when you think of Pope Francis. +After the visit of the pope the greatest need for change. +What the members have to change.
The scene that moved many viewers was the pope's easy interactions with those he met, and the way he related with parents of the Sewol tragedy.The words 'sympathy' and 'communication' stayed with many. In the pope's talks his reference to 'remember and have hope' were meaningful. 'A poor church', and 'before suffering there is no neutrality' were mentioned. The 'comfortable' life of the religious hurts the Church was mentioned by many.
The prominent issue,receiving the most interest was becoming a poor church where the poor would feel at home. The community of the faithful wanted to see changes in the bishops' manner of dialoguing and communication. They pointed out a lack of vision and leadership, authoritarianism and self righteousness, and wanted a commitment to the Social Gospel.
Clericalism and self righteousness of the priest was mentioned by both groups as the biggest issue with the clergy. Also mentioned was a lack of spirituality and a prayer life, a wealthy and comfortable life style, hobbies that are luxurious, and working only with the wealthy.
Religious have a need for prayer and spirituality. Narrow mindedness and a one way approach to problems were listed.
Laypeople were seen to lack a prayer life and spirituality. Lack of participation in the Social Gospel of the Church, factionalism and problems with getting along with neighbors were listed.
The whole Church needs to be more conscious of the poor and become a Church of the poor. One of the editorials wrote we have become a middle class Church where the poor do not feel welcomed and all the members need to work in changing the image with the bishops out in front with renewal.
