Does Cardinal Müller see new role for Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith?

April 07, 2015

The prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith has proposed a new role for his office under Pope Francis, suggesting that the Congregation should “provide the theological structure of a pontificate” under Pope Francis, notes Andrea Tornielli of La Stampa.

In an interview with the French newspaper La Croix, Cardinal Gerhard Müller said that the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, the chief doctrinal agency of the Vatican, naturally served a different function under Pope Benedict XVI, who was an accomplished theologian. It was “no doubt an exception,” Cardinal Müller observed, to have a distinguished professional theologian on Peter’s throne.

Pope Francis is “more pastoral” in his approach, the prefect said, comparing the current Pontiff with Pope John XXIII. It is in these circumstances, he explained, that his Congregation should “provide the theological structure.” Taking note of this comment by Cardinal Müller, Tornielli speculates that the German prelate’s outlook could explain the frequency with which he has made public pronouncements on doctrinal issues in recent months.

 

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Further information:

• Müller suggests new task for Congregation for Doctrine of Faith (La Stampa