The Oregon Synod Committee was formed to respond to the invitation from Pope Francis for all to participate in the ongoing 2021-23 synod. It includes members from across the Archdiocese of Portland.

We support a Catholic Church with arms wide open. That means a church that welcomes and values everyone equally regardless of their sex, sexual orientation, ordination or marital status.

We support an evolution of ideas and practices so that the church reflects these respectful principles and welcomes the world into its fold. This means being open to roles for women that are the same as enjoyed by men; allowing every member to take Communion; and granting the privilege to participate in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony to all members and priests.

Shelley Lorenzen

Lake Oswego