Synod Pre-Game Show IV

JMJ

Rorate has highlighted the change in the winds since Pope Benedict XVI's abdication. You can find it here and I highly recommend reading it carefully.

Basically, as the Synod nears we have the standard 'Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing' paradigm.

The Pope has introduced a new element into the team. This has caused role uncertainty in the Cardinals.

Originally, it was clear that those appointed by Pope Benedict XVI were (by and large) more conservative - even traditionally minded.

Now a new team is forming, with new appointments, demotions etc.

As the new team forms there will will be 'storming' to establish the new team dynamic. The conflict over Cardinal Kasper's proposal is just the tip of the ice-berg. (see Pre-Game Show I, Pre-Game Show II, Pre-Game Show III)

Norming is next and this is what we need to see emerges from the Synod and commission on annulments.

Irregardless as to what will be decided, there are only three possible outcomes: Better, Same, Worse.

Better: The pronouncement in clear language of the Church's Dogma/Doctrine on Marriage, Morality. Implementation of deeper and effective programs for the transmission of this teaching to the laity.

Same: The current policies etc are considered 'pastorally' sufficient.

Worse: People who are married but living in adulterous relationships are officially allowed to received Holy Communion. This would be accomplished by either watering down the pea-soup further or explicit means via the heretical Kasper Doctrine.

My thoughts on the likelihood of each option occurring follow:

Better: Snow balls chance in Hell. It would take a miracle.
Same: Highly unlikely given the shift in the winds to a Pope John XXIII ie Polyanna, view of the relationship between the Church and World.
Worse: Highly likely.

P^3

Comments

The Curious Case of Steve Skojec and the Dangers of Deep Diving into the Crisis Sub-Titled: The Failings of Others

+ JMJ It's been a while now since Steve Skojec sold 1P5 and abandoned the Catholic Faith. I've been a 'Trad' since 1982 and in those 40+ years I seen this death-spiral before with a similar end point. It seems that anyone who jumps into the fray unprepared for the enormous task of righting wrongs will, eventually, become discouraged by not the task but the people who surround them. I remember when Skojec complained of the treatment his family received from a traditional priest. This seems to have been the start of the end for him. So what can we learn from the likes of Steve Skojec, Michael Voris (maybe?), Louie Verrecchio, Gerry Matatix and other celebrity Catholics? Probably quite a lot about what not to do. First, don't burn out on the crisis? When you burn out, on work or anything else, little things assume a more greater importance than they are due. This is one of my 'canary in the coal mine' signals that I've been stretching myself too th...

Communique about Avrille Dominicans - SSPX.org

+ JMJ Having completed the review of the 'Avrille' perspective, this communique from the French District Superior is perfectly timed. I believe that the 'resistance' has lost rationality and further argumentation simply results in their holding on to their false ideal all the more firmly. Pray much ... First, for them to acquiesce to the grace of humility in order to obtain a clear perspective on the principles involved. Second, that we may remain faithful to the Church, and Her Dogmas, Doctrines and Principles. Lest we become that which against we strove ... P^3 Courtesy of SSPX.org

Morning and Evening and other sundry Prayers

+ JMJ Along the theme of P^3 (Prayer, Penance, Patience), and for my own reference ... here is a collection of Morning and Evening prayers from the Ideal Daily Missal along with some additional prayers. In this crisis of the Church, I do not think it is possible to do too much prayer, penance and have patience. P^3

A Reply to Martin Blackshaw’s FLAWED Remnant article titled: FLAWED: SSPX Advice on Abortion-tainted Vaccines

+ JMJ An article has appeared in the Remnant (link to article) and I am afraid that there are a number of flaws in it that need to be addressed. The author, Martin Blackshaw, believes that both the Church and the SSPX are misapplying the principle of Moral Theology called 'Cooperation In Evil'. Unfortunately, Mr. Blackshaw rests most of his arguments on citing authors that support his position, without considering the possibility that they are wrong. This highlights a key factor in this crisis: ignorance of the faith and its application . I don't am not singling out Mr. Blackshaw for this criticism, I have observed that it applies to laity and religious, superior and subject a like. No one seems immune in this enduring crisis, myself included. I further believe that this ignorance is why so many Catholics, both traditional and non, rely on their gut feeling or "Catholic conscience" for charting their way through this crisis of the faith. While...

Magisterium and Levels of Assent

+ JMJ Understanding the levels of assent to be given to the teachings of the Church is a critical success factor in walking the knife's edge during this crisis of the Church. The levels of assent are generally associated with the theological grades of certainty, which are not surprisingly mirrored by the censures for contravening the teachings of the various levels.

Tradicat

Search This Blog