The New Zealand branch of St Pius X is asking what the hurry is about in canonizing John Paul II.
In a letter to all New Zealand priests, the Society acknowledges the popularity of John Paul II. It concedes John Paul II strongly defended the unborn and family life.
However, the Society’s concern is the speed of the process and asks if there is harm in waiting
It questions the circumstances for waiving the five year waiting period before beatification.
“Something done rapidly is not for that reason done erroneously”, wrote Fr Robert MacPherson.
The Society asks where the evidence is to support John Paul II’s heroic holiness?
It says the removal of ‘Devil’s Advocate’ process and the reduction of required miracles are serious gaps.
“A close scrutiny of the pope’s life will most certainly be made, if not by the Church’s authorities, then by the Church’s enemies”, it says.
“In this age of hypercriticism, will this haste in canonising John Paul II truly be for the glory of the Church or will it open it to the disparagement of coming generations?” asks the Society.
By way of example, Fr MacPherson cites the haste of Mother Teresa’s beatification.
It claims doctors dealing with Monica Besra are adamant “no miraculous intervention need be assumed”.
John Paul II and John XXIII’s canonisations will take place on 27 April, Divine Mercy Sunday.
Image
Related Posts:
News category: New Zealand, Top Story.
