Choosing bishops

by Letters Editor · June 14, 2010

From Dr Sibongile Mphande, Boksburg:

An issue of great concern for me as a Catholic is the appointment of bishops by Rome, in particular for the Church of Southern Africa. It would be useful if the apostolic nuncio, Archbishop James P� Green, could outline to us the process and criteria used in the selection of candidates and appointment of bishops.

In my observation there are two things that most of the bishops appointed in Southern Africa have in common: one, they studied in Rome; second, they taught at the seminary, or both.

Though I respect the chosen men, it registers two major concerns with me. Firstly, are they appointed for Rome (we know by Rome) or for the local Church? Secondly, are they truly the most suitable appointment for the local Church? Does Rome not overlook priests who may not have a licentiate from Rome or speak Italian, but are true shepherds in the local Church?

The era of us kissing the bishop�s ring (though we respect the office) and bishops simply pontificating on behalf of Rome is long gone. Maybe it is time for Rome to wake up to this reality and appoint bishops from among the priests who are truly our beloved shepherds, who love and serve us well and never left the borders of their parishes or diocese.