Cardinals urge Pope for clear stance on gay marriage, women’s ordination.
Vatican Synod: Cardinals Present Questions to Pope Francis
On the eve of the highly anticipated Vatican Synod, a senior American Cardinal and four others have published a series of thought-provoking questions, known as dubia, that they presented to Pope Francis. These questions address controversial topics such as the blessing of gay marriage and the ordination of women. The Pope’s response has left more questions than simple “yes or no” answers.
Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke, along with his brother Cardinals, issued an official statement and published the questions on his website and social media pages. They believe it is their duty, as Bishops in the College of Cardinals, to express their opinions on matters concerning the Church’s well-being and to assist the Pope.
The Cardinals express their concern over recent declarations, particularly those made by the German Synod of Bishops, which promoted blessings of same-sex unions and support for the ordination of women. They argue that these declarations contradict the Church’s constant doctrine and discipline, causing confusion and leading people astray.
After receiving an unsatisfactory response from Pope Francis, the Cardinals revised their questions and published them in multiple languages. These questions include whether the Catholic Church can teach something contrary to its previous doctrines, whether the Church can bless homosexual unions, and whether decisions made by a minority at the “Synod on Synodality” hold the same authority as those made by the Pope.
- Can the Catholic Church, today, teach something contrary to the doctrines it has previously taught on Faith and Morals?
- Can the Church bless homosexual unions? Is the Church teaching that any sexual act outside the bonds of the Sacrament of Marriage constitute a grave sin, still true?
- Will decisions made by a small minority of representatives at the “Synod on Synodality” — currently being held in Rome — exercise the Supreme Authority equal to that given solely to the Pope in union with the College of Bishops?
- Could the Catholic Church ever ordain women priests?
- Can a priest validly absolve someone who goes to Confession with the intention to continue the sin they’re admitting to?
Cardinal Burke is joined by other prominent Cardinals in presenting these questions to Pope Francis. However, due to their age, some of these Cardinals are no longer eligible to vote in the next conclave.
The Cardinals claim that the Pope’s initial answers to their questions did not follow the usual practice of providing clear responses. They submitted reformulated answers on August 21 but have yet to receive a response.
The following is a working translation of Pope Francis’ answers to the Cardinal’s dubia, provided by the DDF.
It is due to these answers, the Cardinals state, that they were compelled to ask the pope to simply respond “yes or no”.
Thoughts? https://t.co/rHbic3sJKg pic.twitter.com/moOpr1SGdG
— Bree A Dail (@breeadail) October 2, 2023
Cardinal Fernandez, a close confidant of Pope Francis, criticized the new inquiry, stating that the Pope had already answered the dubia. He accused the Cardinals of treating the Pope as their servant.
The final stage of the 3-year “listening Synod” will address contentious issues such as sexual abuse, LGBTQ inclusion, and female ordination. With 363 voting delegates, including 54 women, the debates are expected to be intense. The “Synod on Synodality” will commence in Vatican City on October 4.
The Daily Wire will continue to report on the Pope’s response as we stay in touch with the signing Cardinals.
What are the recent developments within the Catholic Church that have sparked the Cardinals’ concern about the possibility of ordaining women to the priesthood?
4. Is the Church considering the possibility of ordaining women to the priesthood, despite the fact that the Church has consistently taught that it does not have the authority to do so?
These questions reflect the Cardinals’ concern over recent developments within the Church and their desire for clarification from Pope Francis. They seek to understand whether the teachings of the Catholic Church can be changed, especially on matters that have been consistently upheld throughout history. Pope Francis, in his response to the Cardinals’ questions, did not provide clear-cut answers. Instead, he emphasized the importance of dialogue and discernment within the Church. He acknowledged the Cardinals’ concerns and stated that their questions were a sign of a healthy and responsible collegial dialogue. The Pope’s response has sparked further debate and speculation within the Catholic community. Some interpret it as a sign of openness to change and a willingness to address the controversial topics raised by the Cardinals. Others see it as a reaffirmation of the Church’s teachings, with the Pope encouraging further discussion and discernment to reach a deeper understanding of these issues. Regardless of differing interpretations, one thing remains clear: the questions posed by the Cardinals highlight the ongoing challenges and debates within the Catholic Church on issues of doctrine and discipline. These questions go beyond mere theological debate; they touch upon the very essence of the Church’s identity and mission. The Vatican Synod, which commenced on October 3rd, provides an opportunity for bishops from around the world to come together and discuss these important matters. It is a time of discernment and guidance, seeking to discern the will of the Holy Spirit for the Church in these complex and challenging times. As the Synod progresses, it is hoped that fruitful discussions and open dialogue will lead to greater clarity and understanding. The Cardinals’ questions serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding the Church’s teachings and traditions, while also recognizing the need to address and engage with the modern world. Ultimately, the Vatican Synod and the questions posed by the Cardinals are a testament to the ongoing vitality of the Catholic Church. It is a living and breathing institution, constantly adapting and addressing the challenges of the times, while remaining rooted in the unchanging truths of the Gospel. As the Synod continues, it is essential that all voices are heard and respected, recognizing that the ultimate authority rests with Pope Francis and the College of Bishops in union with him. It is through this collegial dialogue and discernment that the Church can move forward, faithfully proclaiming the Gospel and guiding the faithful in their journey towards God.
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