Pope Francis continues to make waves in the Catholic Church.
According to an article in the Toronto Star, the Pope, in a recent video message to a conference organized by Italian bishops, stated that priests must inform Catholic consciences "but not replace them". He also stressed the distinction between one's conscience- where God reveals himself - and one's ego that thinks it can do as it pleases.
"The contemporary world risks confusing the primacy of conscience, which must always be respected, with the exclusive autonomy of an individual with respect to his or her relations," Francis said.
These statements relate to the on-going debate about whether or not divorced Catholics can receive Church sacraments without obtaining an annulment. Pope Francis suggested such couples "well-formed" consciences should be guide in such matters.
Though many conservatives in the Church may disagree with this stance, I think that Pope Francis is right on. If the sacraments are indeed personal encounters with Christ, then how can curtailing them serve any purpose?
In my mind, the concept of excommunication is as outdated as isolationism. Neither fosters community or love. Neither brings about understanding or healing.
While some right wingers may feel that the Pope is spreading seeds of disunity, I think he continues to encourage twenty first century Catholics to not so much believe in Jesus but rather befriend Him.
Holy Father, may the Holy Spirit continue to bless you and guide you as you continue to skate along the left wing.
No comments:
Post a Comment