Vatican officials criticize Pope's annulment reforms
September 14, 2015
Senior Vatican officials have joined in criticism of the plans unveiled by Pope Francis last week to reform the annulment process, the National Catholic Register reports.
In a 7-page document obtained by the German newspaper Die Zeit, the officials complain that the Pope took action without proper consultation, and express concern that his reforms will lead to a dramatic surge in the number of annulments. Although Pope Francis has spoken frequently about the need for collegial government in the Church, in practice he took action unilaterally, the critics say. They note in particular that he did not allow a review of his proposals by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
The language of the papal documents released last week is “extremely vague,” the Vatican officials say, warning that the reforms will lend themselves to abuse.
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Further information:
- Pope Attacked Over Motu Proprio; Cardinal Kasper Reasserts His Proposal (National Catholic Register)
- Aufstand gegen Franziskus (Die Zeit)
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Posted by: MatthewG -
Sep. 15, 2015 1:17 PM ET USA
Pope Francis has been criticized by those who say he didn't go far enough, and by those who say he went to far. That means he probably struck the right balance...
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Posted by: garedawg -
Sep. 15, 2015 1:05 PM ET USA
Perhaps it would be good to see more annulments. Here in the U.S., we have a functioning infrastructure and enough canon lawyers to speed the process along. But in other countries, many faithful Catholics whose failed marriages deserve a fair evaluation are currently stuck.
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Posted by: Minnesota Mary -
Sep. 14, 2015 10:49 PM ET USA
The Church already gives out annulments like a doctor gives out placebos to hypochondriacs. Hopefully the next Pope will be able to undo this policy of Francis I when they see the numbers of annulments skyrocket to virtually everyone getting an annulment.
