The language of “rifts” between the Vatican, clergy, and laity suggests perhaps more than mere differences or misunderstandings. And, indeed, there are multiple interpretations of these relationships. Some in the American church are quite content with the present status of the relationship between Rome and America. They believe that it preserves the universality of the church, underscores the authority of the papal office, and places the proper emphasis on the tradition. They are enthusiastic about Benedict’s papacy and have little patience for a pluralism of views in the American church. Other Catholics hardly know Benedict’s or the church’s views on a range of issues and they don’t seem to care much about the church’s teachings, whether articulated by the pope, the bishops, or the parish priest. They are indifferent to the teachings and the pleadings of the church.

There are many, however, who respect the office of the papacy and identify with the church, but disagree with a variety of official teachings, ranging from the church’s prohibition of birth control to its understanding of homosexuality. This is the audience that will watch with a skeptical eye but hope for some sign of openness to change. There are many things that Benedict could say to this segment of the American church, such as expressing a willingness to revisit some of the current positions with the possibility for change. He could decide to initiate a dialogue with American Catholics (and others) in which concerns about women in the church, sexual ethics, interreligious relations, and other issues are topics to be explored. He could invite bishops and laity to come together to the Vatican for unscripted dialogue about issues of governance, authority, and regulation. He could listen to those who hold that culture may influence religion and how it does so.

However, neither is he under any requirement to do so, nor, judging by history, is he likely to do so. The talks, and thus the script, for this trip are already written. Most likely, he will reiterate the church’s teachings and encourage Catholics to follow them. At the same time, however, I think that he will try to inspire them to live the gospel, in season and out of season. He will recommend that the gospel transcends political differences within the church. How this balm will soothe the wounds in the American church remains to be seen.