At the second Cardinal Bernardin Conference of the Catholic Common Ground Initiative leading Catholic thinkers representing a wide range of opinion gathered to discuss the question of church authority in contemporary America. The starting point for the discussion was provided in four essays, two by theologians, one by a canon lawyer, and one by a sociologist. In addition to the texts of the four essays, this volume contains an extensive transcript of the conference, including the panel discussion among the four authors and the more general discussion among the many participants in the conference. The discussions are lively and informative, revealing the questions to be resolved and the various positions to be taken into account as the Catholic Common Ground Initiative continues its work of promoting a healthier mode of dialogue and interchange within the church. Catholic Common Ground Initiative was begun through the efforts of the late Joseph Cardinal Bernadin. Its aim is to foster constructive dialogue within the church among people who may differ in opinions and interests.
