Archbishop Paul J. Hallinan attended a meeting of bishops of the United States in Chicago last week. The purpose of the meeting was to inform themselves precisely on the doctrinal issues which will come up for debate when they return to the second session of the Vatican Council next month.

Archbishop Hallinan told the Georgia Bulletin:

“It was the first time since the first session that the American bishops had come together. As we received the various schemata this summer, we have read them and studied them, but there is no substitute for mutual discussion.

“Great issues lie ahead: the relationship of the bishop’s authority to the popes, the concept of religious liberty, the laity’s role and a dozen more. Bishops who are members of the various commissions went over the proposed texts of each, brought us up to date on background material, and gave us their personal evaluation.

“The American bishops at the Council revealed a pastoral bent that surprised many. One of the old stereotypes has been that the American bishop is chiefly a fundraiser. Certainly the construction record of Catholic churches, schools, and institutions is impressive, and Catholic people have a high confidence that the funds they raise will be well spent by those in charge. But the average U.S. bishop actually spends a greater part of his time in pastoral work; the administration; the preparation, ordination, assignment and welfare of his priests; the sermons, pastoral letters, lectures and public appearances that carry the presence and the mood of the Church into every part of the community; the general care of schools and teachers, of the sick and needy.

About twenty-five American prelates are serving in key positions in the Vatican Council. In addition to this, others have spoken on the council floor, and a great number have submitted their observations in writing.”