How Pope Francis’ ‘Amoris Laetitia’ Could Affect Families and the Church

NY Times ^ | 04-07-2016 | LAURIE GOODSTEIN and JIM YARDLEY

[NRx]

In what could be an important moment for his leadership of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis is scheduled to issue a major document on Friday regarding family issues. It is titled “Amoris Laetitia,” Latin for “The Joy of Love.”

In the document, known as an apostolic exhortation, the pope could change church practice on thorny subjects like whether divorced Catholics who remarry without having obtained annulments can receive holy communion. He might address debates over same-sex relationships, cohabitation and polygamy, an issue in Africa. Or, he could sidestep such divisive topics and stick to broader philosophical statements.

[Mrs. Don-o]

bfl

[paladinan]

(*sigh*) New Yuck Times...

In the document, known as an apostolic exhortation, the pope could change church practice on thorny subjects like whether divorced Catholics who remarry without having obtained annulments can receive holy communion.

Just as a general correction for any readers unfamiliar with the background: no, he can't. That's a matter of doctrine, not discipline; any civil "remarriage" while validly married to someone else is adultery (with or without a piece of paper from the state saying that it's "okay"--remember that the state does that for gay "marriage" and for abortion mill permits, as well), and the pope is incapable of making that "not a sin". He's also powerless to remove the spiritually fatal effects of receiving Holy Communion while in a state of unrepented mortal sin (see 1 Corinthians 11:27-30).

He could theoretically instruct priests to allow both practices (i.e. he'd be giving the priests an immoral command, which would not bind in conscience... and, in fact, the priests would be morally bound to refuse, though many would probably capitulate and "go with the flow"--God help them, if they do), but he'd be sinning grievously if he did.

The best possible thing which could happen with this document is that it says nothing of import (i.e. fluff and spiritual "reflections"). Otherwise, it could get ugly. It's stomach-turning to wait for it, I admit.

[Servant of the Cross]

This one from NCR is the better read ...

[terycarl]

I simply cannot believe how much false information has suddenly been wantonly been tossed out about the Pope. He made no such change in the rules preventing divorced and remarried Catholics from receiving the Eucharist...in fact he changed no rules qt all and merely asked for compassionate and respectful attitudes when confronting those involved in unusual lifestyles.