I along with everyone else was somewhat shocked by the actions of the Vatican towards Fr. Frank Pavone. But in some ways not surprised. Even if the actions were justified (though that is far from being proved), it has certainly been done with incompetence and a general sense of possible vindictiveness.
All of us see many injustices and problems coming from the current Vatican. Guys like Fr. James Martin and the German bishops are received by the Pope, while many good priests are cancelled. It seems we are not all playing on a fair or equal playing field.
However, it would be wise for us to step back and let the smoke clear a bit before jumping to too many conclusions. Knee-jerk reactions are never a good idea. The articles below present, what I believe to be, a fair and balanced approach. It seems there are real issues that have festered over the years and the whole distinction between a permanent vocation and and various temporary appointments.
I might recommend reading these three recent articles which each brings out it own particular issues and explanations, or attempts as explaining. I will be a long time before we have the whole story, if ever.
1). Phil Lawler‘s latest assessment of the situation which he posted today. He is a trusted Rome correspondent who explains the historical situation. Read it HERE.
2). Canon Lawyer and regular EWTN commentator Fr. Gerald Murray also published an article worthy of consideration emphasizing the legal aspects. Read it HERE.
3). Crisis Magazine provides a longer history and analysis of the situation with criticism for both sides and an attempt to understand the story with the information we currently have. Read it HERE.
4 and 5). Fr. Dwight Longenecker and the vulnerability of celebrity priests and their followers and his latest excellent thoughts. Read it HERE and HERE.
6). And of course, it’s always important to let everyone have a voice and hear Fr. Pavone‘s response. He has been charged in a very unusual manner, under very unusual circumstances and in the very incompetent way according to my estimation. Fr. Pavone’s response HERE.
With these six articles I think we have information to help think through this matter, but there will be much more revealed in time to come.
This Post Has 2 Comments
Steve,
Thanks for articles regarding the laicization of Fr. Frank Pavone. After talking these past few days with many friends (fellow, faithful Catholics, both laymen and priests), we all seem to agree that the only way the Vatican can pull itself out of this mess and still maintain some sort of respect from us is to begin to issue similar judgements upon the blatant heretics of our day that the current hierarchy seem to embrace and approve by their silence.
STEVE RAY HERE: We also need to begin asking some big questions of Frank Pavone. There is more to this story than the Vatican handling this very poorly. I have reserved judgment until the whole story comes out.
Steve, I agree with you that there is more to come. My cop-sense (retired, but still operational) is telling me the same thing. Like you, I am reserving judgment until I learn more facts.
STEVE RAY HERE: Thanks Bill. I am learning more each day, and the way he is running to all the news outlets to criticize is not a good nor becoming thing to do. We pray for him and we wait. God bless you this Christmas, you and all those you love.
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