By Fr. Vitalis Anaehobi
Fiducia Supplicans
I have taken time to read through the entire document “fiducia supplicans” Declaration on pastoral meaning of blessing.
As a historian and theologian I make bold to say that this document is a reaction to an error that has been institutionalized in some European Churches. The document is not about blessing of same-sex marriage, it is against those who have started blessing same-sex marriage and have even brought out official rites of blessings for such. In arguing that priests can spontaneously bless those who ask for blessing even those in irregular marriage or same- sex marriage without in any way giving such a liturgical outlook, the document seeks to destroy the position of those who feel that the Church should officially bless same-sex marriage.
The 37th article of the document comes out clearly to sustain the above point saying: “In this regard, there come to mind the following words of the Holy Father, already quoted in part: “Decisions that may be part of pastoral prudence in certain circumstances should not necessarily become a norm. That is to say, it is not appropriate for a Diocese, a Bishops’ Conference, or any other ecclesial structure to constantly and officially establish procedures or rituals for all kinds of matters […]. Canon Law should not and cannot cover everything, nor should the Episcopal Conferences claim to do so with their various documents and protocols, since the life of the Church flows through many channels besides the normative ones.”[24] Thus Pope Francis recalled that “what is part of a practical discernment in particular circumstances cannot be elevated to the level of a rule” because this “would lead to an intolerable casuistry.”
Here one sees the kpim of the document. That is why it classified as a declaration.
I advised those who feel betrayed by the Pope to take time and read the document. They will surely understand the battle.
We should understand that there is no smoke without fire. The Church is actually facing a bigger battle than what is seen. Some of the rich countries of Western Christianity are trying to have doctrinal autonomy from Rome and are dancing to earthly ideologies and mundane anthropology. Holding them together with Rome demands more than sophistry. Pray for the Holy Father. He is fighting. Forget the media hype.
Fr. Vitalis Anaehobi
