MISSION statement:

We are a group of Catholics, some of whom are ordained, brought together by our love of Christ's Church and our anxiety about its future. Still inspired by the Second Vatican Council, we want to contribute fully to the life of our Church so that we may be a more effective sign of the Kingdom of God. To do this, we believe that an atmosphere of openness and dialogue both with each other and with our church leadership needs developing. Accordingly, we aim to supply channels of free and frank communication. We desire to help create a climate of trust and respect for all where this dialogue may be fostered.

THEOLOGY statement:

ACTA is a movement built from below by clergy and laity alike in every diocese in England and Wales. It exists to give those people an effective voice. It is an instrument to establish and promote space for a trusting dialogue within a hierarchically structured people’s Church.
 
ACTA believes that the reforms of the Second Vatican Council are the only way forward for mission to modern society. It is not a small chapel of selected followers; it believes in the Church as a “big tent”, with open doors. As a free and representative association of believers, it seeks to liberate the expertise in the ranks, so as to bring added energy and witness to the Church in the world.

Pope to Lay People: Parishes Need You

Written by: Alex Walker

Pope Francis has stressed the role of lay people in evangelisation in an address to Catholic Action Italy, the
country’s largest association of lay faithful.

“In the first place, parishes, especially those marked by fatigue and closures - and there are many of them - need
your apostolic enthusiasm, your availability and your full creative service," the Holy Father told the 7,000
members in the Paul VI Hall on Saturday. The lay group is holding its 15th National Assembly.
Stressing its significance during the Easter season, Francis focused on the theme: 'New people in Christ Jesus –
co-responsible for the joy of living', adding this joy is that “of the disciples in their encounter with the risen Christ."
It must be internalized, he said, “in a style of evangelizing capable of really changing lives.”
Inviting those present to be open to where the Holy Spirit will lead, he said: “In the current social and ecclesial
context, you lay people of Catholic Action are called to renew your missionary [commitment]." He said this
requires being a living example and a renewed lay apostolate, open to accepting unexplored territories. (D.C.L.)