Lay people as Vatican diplomats

Catholic New Times, May 9, 2004 by Vincent Sonntag

Whenever one opens a Catholic publication, there is an article about the shortage of priests.

Why not then the following:

"Vatican diplomatic missions in most countries, are now staffed by archbishops with titular sees and by monsignori. They are ordained career diplomats with pastoral duties.

Could not the Vatican be equally well represented by dedicated lay men and women trained in political science and diplomacy?

The turning over to laypeople of diplomatic responsibilities would not materially alleviate the shortage of priests but it would free those engaged in what is basically a secular occupation to minister to God's people, the purpose of their ordination."

Vincent Sonntag

Fernie, B.C.