Papal encyclical did not settle scientific questions, says former Vatican official
July 02, 2015
Pope Francis did not intend to settle any scientific questions in Laudato Si’, according to an Italian bishop who helped draft the encyclical.
Bishop Mario Toso of Faenza-Modigliana said that the Pontiff wanted to offer “reflections on anthropological and ethical issues.” Regarding scientific debates—most notably the debate on man-made climate change—the Holy Father is keenly aware that opinions can change and conclusions “are not irrefutable or incontrovertible,” he said.
“The Church has no competence on the technical and scientific level,” Bishop Toso said, emphasizing that the focus of the encyclical was on moral rather than scientific questions.
Bishop Toso was secretary of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace until he received his diocesan assignment earlier this year. He is generally acknowledged as a major contributor to the first draft of the papal encyclical.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
