I have no idea of what the RCC thinks; however, I think He used parables because they were extremely effective means of communicating. I don't think they were used to hide anything.
Parables were used because the vast majority of the people were illiterate and would not be able to remember a straight teaching without notes.
A parable was the best way to have the people remember them, take them back to their families and repeat them to themselves and the next generation, keeping reasonably accurate teachings and remembering their points.
This is how the generation of icons began. If 98% of the people cannot read, it is a logical development to develop icons that they can remember things by.
I understand that our Western society is reasonably literate in terms of our incoherant and liberal publications, but, as is demonstrated soundly, ably and with great enthusiasm here, functionally Scripturally illiterate.
Perhaps a return to the Icons might serve society quite well.
Really? Effective? Speaking in parables is "more effective" than saying something plainly? Tell that to all the people who didn't understand His parables.
And as for "hiding anything," that's exactly what Christ said He was doing...
And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them." -- Mark 4:10-12 "And when he (Jesus) was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable.
Sounds like Christ purposely spoke so that only those with a new heart and new ears given by God could understand Him and believe in Him.
"Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables..."
"Unto you it is given to know..."
That's election.