Pope Francis’ Silence: Will He Answer the Dubia?

LifeSite reports on an opinion piece by a former Vatican official discussing Pope Francis’ refusal to answer the dubia issued by four of his cardinals concerning the doctrinal implications and proper interpretation of Amoris Laetitia, the post-synod apostolic exhortation on the family. The confusion that emerged in the wake of Amoris’ release has resulted in myriad conclusions and widespread uncertainty.

The LifeSite article begins: "Why doesn’t the Pope respond to the Dubia? The former director of the Vatican Bank thinks he knows why. Ettore Gotti Tedeschi suggests that Francis is sending two messages through his silence: that he can contradict himself if he likes and that he wishes to impose a 'New Catholic Morality' on the Church. This new morality would be based not on doctrine but on the subjective opinions of the individual conscience... Ultimately, Francis’ silence — which allows doubts to continue to flourish — is a denial of objective truth."

Mr.Tedeschi observes, "In the past, the Church’s concern was to keep the faithful 'strong in the Truth' in order to conserve the faith. She therefore discouraged a disposition to interpret doctrine and the magisterium in a subjective and dangerously misleading manner." He continues, "Indeed, back then the task of pastors was to confirm the certainties of faith by teaching not just by 'listening.'"

We wrote about this issue last April: "How should the faithful respond to Amoris Laetitia? Cardinal Burke (one of the authors of said dubia) makes clear that it should be received with all the respect due the Supreme Pontiff. However, such respect should not be equated with an obligation to believe every utterance or written statement that the pope makes" Pray that Francis clarifies Amoris soon.

Prayer for the Holy Father Pope Francis

Almighty God, Shepherd and Ruler of all Thy faithful people, look mercifully upon Thy servant Pope Francis, whom Thou hast chosen as shepherd to preside over Thy Church. Grant him, we beseech Thee, that by his word and example, he may edify those over whom he hath charge, so that together with the flock committed to him, may he attain everlasting life. Through Christ our Lord and Savior. Amen.