[Polycarp]

Was it a sin???

Until you and I receive the 8th gift of the Holy Spirit (reading mens' souls) I guess any conjecture on its sinfulness is...well...judgemental? Presumptuous? Folly? I don't know what to call it.

Until then, neither of us should hold our breath awaiting that gift, and neither of us knows why he did it, if it was even thought out beforehand, or simply an uncomfortable act performed in a moment of not knowing proper protocol to respect his hosts, or any reason whatsoever etc.

Frankly, I think internal and external enemies (who probably think they themselves have never committed any gaffes in their own lives) of Christ's Church have blown its significance way outta proportion simply to advance their own agenda.

[drstevej]

Has the Pope not discussed this event and explained his motives? I am asking out of ignorance.

I agree that his motives are key for any who consider this more than imprudent.

I sure have done my share of dumb things. I usually admit them.

The first church where I was senior pastor and the first time I led communion I passed the cup and then the bread. It created quite a stir. Some thought I was refreshing and innovative, others questioned my orthodoxy. In reality it was simple absent mindedness. I didn't even realize it until after the service and it was called to my attention.

The next Sunday I shared the variety of comments I had heard and then acknowledged my flub. I reminded them that sometimes we draw conclusions that miss the mark entirely.

-drstevej

[ultima ratio]

We have a right to judge actions when they become patterns and promulgate error. These have been not only revolutionary, but offensive to the faith. I speak of Assisi I and II, of the Pope's apology to Islam, of his praying WITH animists in the Togo forest, of his permitting Aztec dancers and other heathen worshipers to take part in papal ceremonies, including Masses. The same people who supported his opposition to Archbishop Lefebvre think it's wonderful how he gets along with witchdoctors and voodoo priests.