Pax Romana (ICMICA & IMCS) Webinar

Title: “Welcoming the New Pope: Catholic Intellectuals and Lay Professionals Building Bridges Toward a Synodal Church and a Peaceful World Rooted in God’s Love.”

  1. Context and Background
  • The new global realities

Catholic intellectuals and Lay Professionals should be key agents of reflection, action, and social transformation, in line with the perspectives of Pope Leo XIV. However, the new realities that emerge from the technological revolution, the erosion of democratic political values and practices, and a new cultural environment dominated by a persuasive communication that dismisses the speaker’s credibility, appeals to emotions, destroys critical thinking, and isolates individuals, continues to deepen the secularization process and breaks the community sense in families and societies. In the face of the new realities, we ask ourselves: how do we follow Jesus in these circumstances? How do we reconnect to our mission in this reality? How do we meet to share and listen to his message, and transform the realities for the love of our neighbors?

The complexity of global issues and the change in international politics demand new approaches and capacities. The traditional methods of the Pax Romana need to be reviewed because they can no longer bring visible impacts, particularly on the representation at the United Nations. It is crucial to review and redefine the roles and contributions of movements to society, as well as their position in the new world today. This requires structural and political reform within the organization to be testimony in the society and building a synodal Church “The lay faithful, both men and women, should be given greater opportunities for participation, also exploring new forms of service and ministry in response to the pastoral needs of our time in a spirit of collaboration and differentiated co-responsibility.” (Final document of the synod on synodality No.77).

  • The challenges to community building today

The weak bonds between laypeople and the clergy, the rise of individualism, shifting social values, and secular cultural influences have weakened and diminished Pax Romana communities worldwide, reducing their cohesion, participation, and overall dynamism. The lack of renewal of membership poses another significant threat to the future and continuity of the Church’s mission and the movements. The decline of interest in religious activities among the youth is noteworthy.

Furthermore, the shift in focus among Catholic funding agencies has significantly impacted the ability of movements to organize international events, such as conferences and in-person meetings, thereby limiting opportunities for fellowship, formation, accompaniment, and mutual support. This has contributed to a growing sense of isolation and detachment among Catholic movements, loosening the bonds among members internationally. How do we maintain vibrant, spiritually enriching, and mission-driven communities today?

University students and Catholic professionals hold pivotal roles in the synodal journey, building bridges between the Church and society. They fulfill their vocation by integrating faith and action while becoming witnesses of Gospel values in their respective milieus (professional milieu, universities, and in society).

We believe that the election of a new Pope marks a significant moment in the life of the Catholic Church, offering a renewed opportunity to reflect on the Church and the movement’s direction in a rapidly changing world. Catholic intellectuals and lay professionals, as key agents of thought, action, and transformation in society, play a crucial role in shaping this journey.

  1. Objectives

Through the webinar, Pax Romana intends to:

  • To reflect on the expectations and opportunities under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV.
  • To identify ways in which Pax Romana members (Catholic students, catholic intellectuals, and lay professionals) can contribute to the Church’s mission today.
  • To facilitate cross-continental dialogue among Pax Romana members.
  • To foster a path of collaboration between ecclesial and lay institutions globally.
  1. Event Details

Date & Time: Saturday, June 14, 2025, 13:00 GMT

Format: Online via Zoom

Registration link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/bEZagyI6Sbq2RoWFnnBUxw

Languages: English, French, and Spanish (simultaneous interpretation available)

Participants: Pax Romana members around the world.

  1. Speakers and subtopics