When smaller groups of bishops assemble, they do not constitute a college and should not try to act as though they were. But they should strive to collaborate in a collegial spirit. On the appointment of bishops, I am quite open to new proposals, but I urge caution to prevent partisanship, electioneering and the interference of national governments. The present system ensures confidentiality and protects the reputation of individuals who are not selected. It also allows the consideration of persons who would not be well known in the locality.
Episcopal conferences are excellent consultative organs.
They may on occasion have the power to speak with binding authority, but their legislative and doctrinal role should be kept in check lest they encourage the growth of nationalism in the church and override the authority of the diocesan bishops. The Synod of Bishops has proved very useful, but for reasons given above it does not have the power to act as if it were the college of bishops. In its present form, it is not well suited to function as a legislative or doctrinal authority for the universal church. As for the Roman Curia, it will always be the butt of complaints no matter how often it is reformed. Maybe an occasional word of appreciation for these Roman offices would not be out of place.