That would only be taken as evidence that it was emotional and not theological.
Good post.
The thing is, that by default it was theological too. It was ecclesial terror, and it was not contained to just a few people, and if you were lower class without the ability to apply any leverage, no priest or monsignor would come to your aid.
I wonder how many kids thought to themselves, maybe if I write to the pope, he can get me out of this. But, for the kids I grew up with at least, taking one look at the face of PPaul VI told you he wouldn't liberate you from anything. No kid that I ever knew felt warmth for the pope. The only pope I ever had any affection for was JPII. I was really moved by his death, and the reason I had some affection for him is that I did see love in his face, and he looked a lot like my Father.
You know what, AlbG, I've always loved my Catholic uncle and, of course, my Baptist dad. But, the story is true, and confirmed. Nothing more to say about it other than the effect it had has lasted 70+ years.
Having both of them (and their sisters) in my life mitigated the report my father gave. Arrogant Bustard talks of the evil that one man caused, and he's right about that.
But, that is theological. "What the hell is that guy up to?" when it is a Church Leader (priest) being discussed, IS a theological question.
My dad was baptized Catholic as an infant. He clearly is now a dyed-in-the-wool Baptist.
A good theological question is: "Is he still a Roman Catholic?"