From Larry Bennett re the contemporary Canadian Church.Ronald Reagan is reputed to have said that he didn't leave the Democratic Party, but that the party had left him. I must say that I am beginning to feel the same, as it concerns the Roman Catholic Church Roman Catholic Church, Christian church headed by the pope, the bishop of Rome (see papacy and Peter, Saint). Its commonest title in official use is Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. ; or, rather, its Canadian branch. I have become tired of defending, or at least making excuses for, priests who ignore their vows of celibacy (a small number, granted), or those who ignore their vows of poverty, or who defy liturgical norms (e.g., allowing liturgical dance Liturgical dance is an expression of prayer or worship through body movement. Such dances can be accompanied by many different types of music. The dancers will respond with an appropriate dance which flows out of the music and enhances the prayer or worship experience. ) or insist on turning the celebration of the Eucharist into some sort of revival meeting. Or those who encourage their flock to act "according to according to prep. 1. As stated or indicated by; on the authority of: according to historians. 2. In keeping with: according to instructions. 3. their conscience" on such matters as birth control, and even abortion. I am tired, too, of good priests who remain silent out of fear of being ostracized by both parishioners and other clergy. It's a terrible thing for a Catholic to feel like he has no parish to call home, or who is afraid to give his confession to a priest who may not hold to such medieval views as the inviolable secrecy of the confessional. As far back as the Fourth Lateran Council Noun 1. Fourth Lateran Council - the Lateran Council in 1215 was the most important council of the Middle Ages; issued a creed against Albigensianism, published reformatory decrees, promulgated the doctrine of transubstantiation, and clarified church doctrine on the , in 1215, Pope Innocent III Pope Innocent III (c. 1161 – June 16, 1216), born Lotario de' Conti di Segni, was pope from January 8, 1198 until his death. Biography Early life and election to the Papacy Lotario de' Conti di Segni was born in Gavignano, near Anagni. , said, "The corruption of the people has its chief source in the clergy." Perhaps he was onto something, or perhaps, as is finally beginning to happen across Canada, priests and bishops are making their voices be heard, despite threats from politicians and the judiciary. One can only hope and pray. Surrey, B.C. |
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