John XXIII at the Opening of Vatican II, the 21st Ecumenical Council: The substance of the ancient doctrine of the deposit of faith is one thing, and the way in which it is presented is another.
Further, the Pope said that it is necessary first of all that the Church should never depart from the sacred patrimony of truth received from the Fathers.
What he was saying was that this Council must re-interpret the affirmations of faith, by saying the same thing but saying it in a different way?
It was to be in a modern and more tolerant way, less dogmatic.
This Council considering the already disparate views of its members was handed an almost impossible task. Pope John XXIII also said the unity of Catholics among themselves, must always be kept exemplary and most firm.
Vatican II with its unholy aftermath was predicted by St. John Bosco in 1862 when he said “There will be an Ecumenical Council in the next century, after which there will be chaos in the Church.”
There is no doubt that following Vatican II and quoting Our Lady at Fatima this will be a time of great trials for the Church. Cardinals will oppose cardinals. Bishops will oppose bishops. Satan will walk in their ranks. In Rome, there will be great changes.
What was held to be ecumenism and taught by the church was NOT “let’s accept everyone’s theology” or “let us all get along” theology.
This is not what was taught by Christ and the Apostles. Lately when most Church hierarchy mention “ecumenism” they mean adapting Catholic teaching to reach a compromise and then praying with or appearing to approve false religions.
The present turmoil within the ranks of the Princes of the Church is not conducive to the catechesis of those outside the Faith; rather it deters those enquiring about the Catholic Church and discourages those who are attempting to guide them.
There are Bishops, including the present Holy Father, who believe that it is no longer necessary to convert Protestants and non-Christians to Catholicism.
There are Cardinals and Bishops who preach that most people will go to Heaven (98% has been suggested), that Christ’s miracles were a fabrication, that we should not teach everything that Christ taught, that Holy Communion should be given to those who promote and those who practice abortion, that Holy Communion can be given to non-Catholics, that practicing homosexual persons should also receive Holy Communion and etc.
It would appear to me that if we are to achieve Our Lord’s wish expressed in His time of Passion “that they may all be one” we should first understand His Teaching from Luke and Mathew “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste, and no town or house divided against itself will stand.”
Ecumenism must start by bringing together the Bishops of Christ’s Mystical Body on earth.
If it is the Pope’s wish and primary concern to proclaim the Gospel then it is time that he spent more effort in bringing to heel the errant clergy. In other words, ecumenism should start at home.
- Joe Hannah