Alternative sponsorship--a test for the Church.

Alternative forms of sponsorship for the Catholic health care ministry--particularly sponsorship by the laity--have the potential to become a new ministerial resource. But they also present challenges. New forms of sponsorship may require new structures, since the models used by religious institutes may not meet the needs of lay associations. Sponsors must be guided by a unique mission, common training, and a statement of ethical commitment, just as religious are bonded by a shared vision. Finally, the laity must determine their role within the framework of the hierarchical Church. Although the bishop's role in terms of health care still is too often defined as control, the growing complexity of corporate life and of apostolic organizations may prompt the hierarchy to more broadly interpret this role. Planners then should negotiate with their bishop the means of developing and maintaining a Catholic identity.